US health officials exclude measles-related deaths in Pennsylvania from counts

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has decided not to include two recent measles-associated deaths in Pennsylvania when counting measles deaths, according to a recent report. This action has been met with criticism from health officials and even the Secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F Kennedy Jr.

Debra Houry, a former CDC chief medical officer, expressed her surprise at this decision, stating that it was highly unusual and had not occurred with other reported measles deaths. Kennedy, however, suggested that the CDC's decision was politically motivated and aimed at diverting attention and resources towards foodborne diseases, which he deemed more dangerous than measles.

In August, Pennsylvania reported two measles-related deaths, including a newborn who died shortly after birth. Kennedy suggested that these deaths were "fabricated," a claim the CDC has not confirmed. The CDC has paused its weekly update, keeping the number of measles deaths at zero while it reviews further information about these cases.

This decision has raised concerns about the CDC's relationship with state health agencies, as it usually collaborates with them in such situations. The CDC is now seeking additional information regarding the circumstances and causes of death, but it is unclear what exactly they are looking for and why the data provided by the states was deemed insufficient.

The recent measles outbreak in the US has been concerning, as the country has fallen below the threshold to prevent outbreaks that protect vulnerable populations such as infants, pregnant women, and others at higher risk.