An Insider's View of the Texas Measles Outbreak
Briefly

Katherine Wells, Lubbock's public health director, faces the largest measles outbreak since 2000 that has infected over 700 individuals, hospitalizing many and killing two children. With immunization rates dropping and misinformation from anti-vaccine activists spreading rapidly, Wells stresses the need for urgent vaccination campaigns. Federal funding cuts have hindered her efforts, further complicating the public health response. Wells remains committed to increasing vaccine awareness and countering false narratives that jeopardize community health, understanding that addressing such challenges requires both resources and strategies to rebuild public trust in vaccines.
Katherine Wells emphasizes the urgent need for increased vaccinations in West Texas to combat the largest measles outbreak since 2000, exacerbated by anti-vaccine misinformation.
Despite a lack of federal support and escalating anti-vaccine sentiments, Wells remains determined to protect public health by countering misinformation and promoting vaccination.
Read at www.npr.org
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