Concerns Over Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak

Last year, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) battled a significant measles outbreak—the largest since 2000—Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his supporters were reportedly focused on compiling historical data about the measles and its vaccine, according to a former high-ranking CDC official.

In a recent interview with “Face the Nation,” Dr. Debra Houry, the former Chief Medical Officer at the CDC, recalled that Kennedy and his associates were seeking information that appeared more aligned with their agenda than grounded in scientific evidence. She was one of four senior officials who resigned in protest last summer.

During last year’s outbreak, more than 2,000 measles cases were reported nationwide, including several in a West Texas incident that tragically resulted in the deaths of two children. Amid this crisis, Kennedy’s staff requested extensive records on measles fatalities from years prior. In response, Houry emphasized via email that addressing the active outbreak was paramount, as revealed by a recent release of emails to the Senate health committee.

Houry noted, “While dealing with the outbreak, we also received requests for 15 years of data on every measles case, including whether there were other health issues involved.” She criticized a statement from Kennedy’s group that suggested not all measles-related deaths were indeed caused by the virus. This made it seem that they were possibly manipulating CDC data to support external beliefs.

Houry also voiced her concerns about Kennedy’s views on the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, particularly since he has a longstanding reputation as a vaccine skeptic. While he occasionally praised the vaccine, he also spread incorrect information about its components and advocated alternative treatments. Emails from spring 2025 saw Houry inquire if Kennedy’s aides needed help refining his messaging.

Houry shared, “He would make statements about fetal materials in vaccines, so I reached out to correct that and see how we could assist.” It’s worth noting that vaccines contain no fetal tissue.

She expressed her apprehension that misinformation directly impacts public health, specifically during an outbreak. CDC statistics revealed that around 93% of individuals who contracted measles last year were either unvaccinated or had uncertain vaccination statuses.

“We had children being hospitalized and even dying from measles,” Houry stated. “It was crucial for people to get vaccinated. Unfortunately, the focus seemed to shift to unverified treatments like steroids, antibiotics, and even vitamin A.”

In various television appearances and an opinion piece, Kennedy promoted vitamin A as a viable treatment for measles, referencing a CDC statement endorsing the supplement. He claimed research shows that vitamin A significantly decreases measles mortality rates.

However, Houry reported that excess vitamin A intake had led to toxicity cases in hospitals, as some people misunderstood the messaging regarding its usefulness for treating measles.