RFK Jr. Suggests 'Fabricated' Measles Deaths, Spreads MMR Misinfo

Two measles-associated deaths occurred in Pennsylvania, one of which was an infant, prompting Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to raise questions about the authenticity of the reports and spread misinformation regarding the MMR vaccine. Kennedy alleged that the deaths might have been prematurely announced or fabricated altogether, a claim denied by Lancaster County's coroner who stated that the infant died due to a ruptured spleen and internal hemorrhage, with measles detected in the lung tissue.

The CDC is investigating the matter, expressing appreciation for Kennedy's efforts to clarify the conflicting information.

Kennedy's statements were met with skepticism from health officials, including Pennsylvania's Secretary of Health, Debra Bogen, who confirmed that two measles-associated deaths had occurred in Lancaster County following lab tests. The state's epidemiology team also verified that both individuals tested positive for measles. Kennedy and Governor Josh Shapiro engaged in a public dispute over the issue, with Shapiro accusing Kennedy of spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories, claiming the offer of federal resources was declined by Kennedy who then launched into a tirade about fetal tissue and the previous administration's role in the problem.

Vaccination experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, refute Kennedy's claims, stating that there is no fetal tissue in the MMR vaccine and that vaccines do not contain fetal cells. Kennedy also suggested that it would be better if the nation reverted to natural measles, a position that was criticized by Surgeon General Jerome Adams, who debunked the notion that lockdowns and government actions during the COVID-19 pandemic damaged public trust in vaccines.

Current vaccination rates in the U.S. have declined, with 92.4% of kindergarteners receiving the MMR vaccine in the 2025-2026 school year, down from 95.2% in the previous year, and an increase in vaccine exemptions.