79% Americans Support Routine Childhood Vaccines Amid Measles Outbreak

A recent Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health survey conducted during a widespread multi-state measles outbreak found that 79% of U.S. adults support mandatory childhood vaccinations against diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella for school attendance. This support is strong across political affiliations, including 90% of Democrats, 68% of Republicans, and 66% of supporters of the "Make America Great Again" movement, as well as 72% of parents. The survey involved 2,509 adults and highlighted that the main reason for opposing vaccine mandates is parental choice rather than concerns over vaccine safety. Most Americans (91%) consider childhood vaccines safe, with many citing the risk of disease resurgence and protection of medically vulnerable children as key reasons for their support. The findings underscore that vaccine requirements are less controversial than often perceived and remain fundamental to public health. These results emerge amid 23 measles outbreaks in 36 states and New York City in 2025, with over 1,200 confirmed cases reported.