Anti-vaccine influencers see the child’s death as proof — not of the danger of measles, but of their own debunked theories.

Summary

In February, a 6-year-old Texan became the first U.S. child to die from measles in two decades. Instead of serving as a warning about vaccine hesitancy, anti-vaccine groups have weaponized her story.

The girl’s grieving Mennonite parents gave an interview to Children’s Health Defense, claiming measles is “not as bad” and advising others against vaccination.

A measles outbreak has spread through their Texas community, sickening over 190 people.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now HHS secretary, has used his platform to spread misinformation about vaccines while alternative practitioners promote unproven treatments.