Dr. Oz calls for Americans to receive measles vaccination due to rising case numbers.
Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, has called for a renewed effort among Americans to get vaccinated for measles as outbreaks continue to affect various states across the country. During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday, Oz emphasized the importance of vaccination amid rising measles cases that threaten the United States’ measles elimination status established in 2000, when the disease was deemed eradicated.
In recent weeks, the U.S. has seen a notable increase in measles cases, with outbreaks reported in states including South Carolina, which has experienced a significant surge. As of February 3, 2025, South Carolina reported 920 confirmed cases, surpassing the number of cases recorded in Texas in 2024. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 733 measles cases nationwide this year, with nearly all of them linked to current outbreaks.
Despite the importance of vaccinations, there has been a declining trend in vaccination rates over the years. Figures show that skepticism surrounding vaccine safety has infiltrated public health discussions, particularly since Robert F. Kennedy Jr. became a prominent figure in shaping health policy. Under his leadership, a controversial decision was made to remove several diseases from the recommended vaccination list for children—sparking significant critique from the medical community, including strong pushback from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which continues to advocate for the complete vaccination schedule.
While Oz acknowledges varying perceptions regarding the severity of different illnesses, he maintained that measles is particularly concerning and urged individuals to get vaccinated. He stated that the administration has consistently supported vaccination efforts to safeguard public health, especially concerning measles.
Kennedy has publicly expressed support for the measles vaccine during previous outbreaks, but critics argue that his initial responses downplayed the severity of the situations. In 2025, a measles outbreak in Texas resulted in the deaths of two children and led to 99 hospitalizations before the situation was brought under control.
As the discourse around vaccination continues to evolve amid growing public concern over outbreaks, health officials stress that vaccines remain one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations. The calls from prominent health figures like Dr. Oz serve as a reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in public health.
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