CDC Buries Measles Forecast Amid Vaccine Debate

Recent internal records reveal that the CDC ordered staff not to release findings indicating a high risk of measles in areas with low vaccination rates, which has raised concerns about a shift in the agency's messaging under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine critic. The CDC spokesperson claimed the decision not to disclose the assessment was based on the information being largely known, while also reaffirming that vaccines are the best protection against measles. However, the new emphasis on vaccination as a 'personal choice' echoes Kennedy's rhetoric and has alarmed public health experts. Jennifer Nuzzo, director at Brown University, expressed concern that this language diminishes the urgency surrounding vaccination, especially as measles cases have already surpassed those in 2024. Critics argue that the CDC's longstanding firm stance on vaccines is being undermined, potentially jeopardizing public health efforts. This controversy comes as measles outbreaks have been reported in 19 states, highlighting the critical need for vaccinations.