As measles outbreak slows in West Texas, doctors remain on alert
NBCMAY 5
Texas Measles Outbreak Slows, National Cases Near 1K
Above: Signs point the way to measles testing in the parking lot of the Seminole Hospital District on Feb. 27, 2025 in Seminole, Texas. Image copyright: Jan Sonnenmair/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
It's disappointing to see this measles outbreak at a time in history when the best single defense against any virus — a vaccine — is widely available. Unfortunately, U.S. leaders, including Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have been spreading debunked information about vaccines. More must be done to provide accurate vaccination information and protect the nation's children.
Right narrative
With the measles outbreak currently under control, it is important to recognize that other public health concerns also deserve our attention. As far as vaccination rates, the growing medical freedom movement reflects legitimate concerns about personal autonomy and parental rights. Individual liberty and religious freedom must be protected because if individuals cannot make informed decisions about what is introduced into their own bodies, then the very essence of freedom is compromised.