US Vaccine Expert Peter Hotez Attributes Texas Measles Outbreak to Policy Failures and Advocacy Gaps

Peter Hotez, a vaccine expert, identifies policy failures and advocacy gaps as key factors in the recent measles outbreaks in Texas. He calls for improved vaccination strategies to combat rising cases.

International

-Sathish Raman

Updated: Sunday, December 28, 2025, 0:42 [IST]

Recent measles outbreaks in Texas have led to the highest number of cases in the US in over 30 years, according to a vaccine expert. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, highlighted gaps in vaccination policies at both state and federal levels as contributing factors.

Hotez explained that 18 US states, including Texas, allow nonmedical vaccine exemptions based on personal beliefs. This policy gap is compounded by a new federal administration's efforts to limit access to MMR vaccines and those with aluminium adjuvants for ideological reasons. He emphasised that these actions are not scientifically justified.

Vaccine Advocacy Concerns

Hotez also criticised the lack of effective vaccine advocacy. He pointed out that the US Secretary of Health and Human Services frequently makes misleading public statements and spreads antivaccine misinformation. This contributes to the growing issue of vaccine hesitancy among the public.

In an interview on MSNBC's All In with Chris Hayes, Hotez reiterated his concerns about the rapid resurgence of measles and other preventable diseases when immunisation rates decline. He stressed the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent such outbreaks.

Health Officials Urge Vaccination

Texas health officials have urged parents to ensure their children receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. They emphasise that full vaccination is crucial in preventing the spread of these diseases. The call to action aims to address the current gaps in vaccination coverage.

Hotez warned that if vaccination rates do not improve and misinformation continues unchecked, preventable diseases could return to levels not seen in decades. This highlights the urgent need for effective vaccine advocacy and policy changes to protect public health.

The situation underscores the importance of addressing both policy and advocacy gaps to ensure widespread immunisation. By countering misinformation and promoting scientific understanding, it is possible to prevent further outbreaks and safeguard community health.

With inputs from PTI

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