A measles outbreak in the US Southwest has resulted in 747 cases and three deaths this year, with underreporting suspected. The CDC attributes the surge to low vaccination rates in close-knit communities and has deployed personnel and resources to Texas, the hardest-hit area. Funding cuts from slashed COVID-19 funding hamper efforts. Criticism of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s approach to the outbreak has emerged, given his promotion of unproven treatments and downplaying vaccine efficacy. Experts highlight the preventable nature of these deaths due to the highly effective measles vaccine.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.