RFK Jr. would like “everybody to get measles”

In an interview with Fox News, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the US Secretary of Health and Human Services, partially revisited his statements made a few weeks earlier, where he encouraged vaccination and acknowledged the effectiveness of the measles vaccine. RFK Jr. now claims that natural immunity against measles is superior to that conferred by the vaccine, as cases of this highly contagious disease are increasing in the United States, notably in Texas and other states.

This time, although he acknowledges the effectiveness of the vaccine, RFK Jr. now adopts a controversial stance, emphasizing natural immunity and vitamin A intake, stating that it is an effective approach for the population. 

His statements could encourage a concerning acceleration of disease transmission, as two deaths have already been reported in connection with this highly contagious epidemic. However, this does not prevent Kennedy from claiming that it would be better for “everyone to get measles”, as it was “when he was a kid”.

However, RFK Jr.’s statements are inaccurate or lack essential information, thus misleading the public, while the United States is facing a major measles epidemic affecting several states.

While asserting that the government must provide transparent information to ensure an informed choice and presenting himself as an advocate for freedom of choice, RFK Jr. omits essential elements regarding natural immunity and vitamin A intake.

By omitting crucial information, it exposes the public to a biased perception of the situation, thus risking the minimization of the seriousness of the epidemic in the eyes of some people.

During his interview on Fox News, RFK Jr. suggested that the use of vitamin A was recommended to reduce the severity of measles and associated deaths, citing studies highlighting its benefits in areas affected by outbreaks. 

However, the CDC and many experts emphasize that RFK Jr. omits a crucial point: while some studies indicate that vitamin A may help mitigate complications in infected individuals, it does not prevent measles in unvaccinated individuals, and the risk of death or severe complications remains significant.

It is important to specify that studies on the effect of vitamin A against measles mainly focus on populations in developing countries, where malnutrition and vitamin A deficiencies are major aggravating factors. 

Comparing these results to the United States, where the diet is generally adequate, can be misleading. Although vitamin A may help reduce complications in infected individuals, its impact is much less in developed countries and it does not replace vaccination in any way.

RFK Jr. also states during his interview that natural immunity against measles is effective in the long term. However, this assertion omits another crucial point: while the immunity acquired after an infection is robust and generally lifelong, it is obtained at the cost of high risks, including serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.

In contrast, the measles vaccine (MMR) offers very effective protection at 97% after two doses. The first dose provides about 93% effectiveness, and the second boosts this protection to nearly 100% against severe forms.

Regarding the duration of immunity, studies show that the immunity conferred by the vaccine is extremely durable. The majority of vaccinated individuals maintain their protection for life, although, in rare cases, a gradual decline may occur. However, even if a vaccinated person were to be exposed to the virus, their protection would remain sufficient to prevent severe forms.

The ongoing measles epidemic in the United States, particularly affecting Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma, has already led to 258 confirmed cases and 2 deaths. In light of this situation, health authorities are calling for an intensification of vaccination. However, with such statements coming from the head of HHS, the national spread of measles is becoming a major source of concern.