Pennsylvania asks CDC for emergency assistance amid RFK Jr. clash over measles

Pennsylvania has sought emergency assistance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to combat one of the most severe and lethal measles outbreaks in the nation, according to recently reviewed documents. The request is contingent upon the federal agency acknowledging four measles-related deaths reported by the state, which has added a significant dimension to a conflict with the Trump administration.

The measles outbreak has become the epicenter of a power struggle between U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat. Kennedy has expressed skepticism regarding whether the deceased individuals in U.S. measles outbreaks since he assumed office were directly caused by the virus or other factors. Consequently, he has instructed the CDC not to include Pennsylvania's fatalities in the national tally.

Experts in disease prevention have pointed out that this decision by the health secretary represents an unprecedented level of intervention in the assessment conducted by state health officials, potentially downplaying the severity of the measles threat in the public's perception. The secretary has accused Governor Shapiro of politicizing the outbreak in his state and failing to take adequate measures to prevent its spread.