United States: The recent US measles outbreak surpasses 700 reported cases, creating intensified pressure for Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to control the lethal virus.
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Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that 712 cases exist, while Kansas, Ohio, and Indiana identified new measles infections.
The outbreak currently affects 25 states, according to official data reports. Kennedy made this statement to the White House Cabinet meeting this week when he said cases had reached a plateau.
Texas currently leads all states by maintaining the most cases, with a total of 514. Texas reported 36 new COVID-19 cases throughout the current week based on the state health service reports.
The information released by the Texas Department of State Health Services shows 355 cases detected within Gaines County.
Measles started spreading across Texas in early 2019 and has resulted in hospitalizations of no less than 56 patients suffering from virus complications.
Two students of school age died from the infection in the state. The two patients were children who did not receive vaccine treatments and lacked any reported medical diseases.
Kennedy traveled to Gaines County to give support to the family whose 8-year-old daughter had passed away from the disease.
What are the experts stating?
The Secretary of Health and Human Services endorsed the MMRII vaccine as the best means to stop the spread of measles illness.
According to Kennedy, who has faced criticism for the department’s response to the outbreak and his previous stance on childhood vaccines, stated earlier this month, “My intention was to come down here quietly to console the families and to be with the community in their moment of grief,” the Hill reported.
Data shows that infection rates have increased in multiple American states.
According to the New Mexico Department of Health, the vaccination-related cases reached 58, while six confirmed cases involved people who received at least a dosage of the vaccine.
The state medical authorities are conducting an investigation of a person who died after testing positive for measles. According to CDC records, they remained unprotected against vaccinations.