As measles cases see a significant increase in Texas and New Mexico, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s remarks regarding natural measles immunity versus vaccine-induced immunity have reignited debate.
During a televised interview on March 11, 2025, on Fox News with Sean Hannity, Kennedy suggested that individuals who naturally contracted measles in childhood decades ago gained lifelong immunity, unlike vaccine-induced immunity, which he claims may wane over time.
Kennedy mentioned that historically, children commonly contracted measles, resulting in lifelong immunity, and expressed skepticism that vaccines provide similar protection. While effective for some, he noted that vaccine-induced immunity might diminish for others.
Health experts acknowledge that natural infection can confer lifelong immunity; however, they strongly advise against contracting measles due to its severe risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), before the vaccine’s introduction in 1963, the U.S. saw approximately 500,000 measles cases and 500 deaths annually, with likely more cases unreported. Since widespread vaccination, measles cases have decreased by over 95%.
At present, Texas and New Mexico are facing notable measles outbreaks, primarily among unvaccinated populations. Texas has reported 223 measles cases, with 29 hospitalizations and one child fatality involving an unvaccinated individual. New Mexico has recorded 33 measles cases, and an adult death possibly linked to measles is pending official confirmation.
In Texas, of the confirmed measles cases, five patients received at least one MMR vaccine dose, while 80 were unvaccinated, and 138 had unknown vaccination statuses. Health authorities stress that the MMR vaccine remains the most effective defense, offering approximately 97% effectiveness after two doses. The vaccine is usually administered in early childhood, with the first dose at 12 to 15 months and the second dose at four to six years. Adults lacking proof of immunity should receive one or two doses based on specific risk factors.
Kennedy, known for vaccine skepticism, stated his support for vaccine availability but opposed mandatory vaccinations. Kennedy argued for personal choice, stating, “if people don’t want it, the government shouldn’t force them to do it.”
Kennedy also discussed potential adverse events linked to vaccines, claiming the measles vaccine “causes all the illnesses that measles itself causes.” Health officials counter that vaccine side effects are minimal and far less severe than the disease’s risks, which can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.
Despite his skepticism, Kennedy acknowledged during the interview that the measles vaccine prevents disease spread.
Globally, measles cases increased by 20% in 2023 compared to the prior year, raising concerns over declining vaccination rates. In the U.S., officials highlight vaccine hesitancy as an escalating public health challenge, fueled by online misinformation.
The issue is also international. In Samoa, health officials criticized Kennedy for comments on the country’s 2019 measles outbreak, which resulted in 83 deaths, mainly among children under five. Kennedy’s questioning of the cause of these deaths drew strong rebukes from Samoan health officials.
Dr. Alec Ekeroma, Samoa’s Director-General of Health, described Kennedy’s remarks as a “huge denial,” warning that Kennedy’s potential influence in U.S. health policy could jeopardize vaccine access for smaller nations. “It would be a danger to us, a danger to everyone,” Ekeroma stated.
In response to the U.S. outbreaks, public health officials in Texas and New Mexico are actively engaging communities to boost vaccination rates. They encourage individuals to verify their own and their children’s vaccination statuses, especially if traveling to or residing in affected areas.
Dr. Tammy Camp, a Texas health official, explained that vaccine hesitancy has increased partly due to political influence from anti-vaccine groups, complicating outbreak response efforts.
A recent Johns Hopkins report indicates that vaccine misinformation and a rise in non-medical exemptions for school vaccinations have significantly contributed to outbreaks across various U.S. regions, challenging health departments in controlling the spread.
Nationally, the CDC reports 222 measles cases in 12 jurisdictions as of early March 2025. Of these, 93% are linked to outbreaks, primarily affecting unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals.
Public health officials emphasize that maintaining high vaccination coverage—above 94%—is crucial for achieving community immunity and reducing outbreak risks.
