At a Glance
- U.S. measles cases reach 935, marking the worst outbreak in 25 years
- Health Secretary RFK Jr. promotes unproven treatments like vitamin A
- Medical experts warn such alternatives may erode vaccine trust
- Three deaths reported; all were unvaccinated individuals
RFK Jr.’s Alternative Treatment Push
In the face of the largest U.S. measles outbreak in a quarter-century, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is advocating for alternative treatments—including vitamin A, budesonide, and clarithromycin—despite lacking scientific consensus on their effectiveness. Kennedy has directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to explore these treatments as part of an evolving response strategy.
However, public health experts warn that this push may distract from the proven efficacy of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which remains the gold standard in prevention and is about 97% effective. The CDC maintains that no antiviral drugs are currently approved for measles, and treatment remains limited to supportive care. Vitamin A is used therapeutically in developing countries or in patients with deficiencies—but not as a standalone option.
Watch CBS News’ report on the incident at RFK Jr. asks CDC for new measles treatment guidance amid his unfounded claims.
Outbreak Escalates Amid Conflicting Messages
As of May 1, 2025, the U.S. has logged 935 measles cases across 30 states, with Texas alone accounting for 683. According to health officials, this marks the most widespread outbreak in 25 years. The virus has claimed the lives of three individuals—two children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico—all of whom were unvaccinated.
Notably, about 96% of infections occurred among the unvaccinated, a statistic that public health experts cite as a clear testament to the vaccine’s effectiveness. Yet, RFK Jr.’s spotlight on alternative therapies has prompted concern among professionals like Dr. Paul Offit, who warned that shifting focus away from immunization risks further eroding public trust.
Medical Community Responds
While Kennedy claims these options could supplement care, experts strongly caution against promoting unproven treatments. For instance, the World Health Organization supports vitamin A supplementation for measles-infected children with deficiencies but does not recommend it as a prevention or cure. The American Academy of Pediatrics states there is no robust clinical evidence for the use of budesonide or clarithromycin in treating measles.
Additionally, physicians warn that misuse of antibiotics like clarithromycin in viral illnesses can lead to harmful resistance, and corticosteroids like budesonide may exacerbate complications without controlled oversight. Still, Kennedy reiterated his stance this week in Texas, stating that religious exemptions among Mennonite communities necessitate developing therapeutic protocols beyond vaccination.
Public Health Implications
With cases mounting, Kennedy has continued to affirm his support for vaccination, acknowledging that “if you take that vaccine, you’re unlikely to get measles.” Yet experts remain wary. Epidemiologist Jennifer Nuzzo warned that emphasizing treatments may send the dangerous message that vaccines are optional.
The CDC estimates that 95% vaccination coverage is necessary to achieve herd immunity. Current rates have slipped below that threshold in multiple states—triggering vulnerabilities that have allowed this outbreak to flourish.
