Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long been a prominent figure in the vaccine skepticism movement. Recently, however, he offered strong public support for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This change comes amid a surge in measles cases across the U.S. Despite this notable shift, Kennedy’s views on other vaccines, such as those for COVID-19, HPV, and hepatitis B, appear less changed.
As the Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary, Kennedy acknowledged the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine. He has stated that the government promotes the vaccine and that it’s highly effective in preventing measles. This marks a significant change from his previous statements. Dr. Paul Offit, an expert from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, highlighted the rigorous development vaccines undergo. This includes extensive research and testing through clinical trials, followed by reviews from the FDA and CDC. Even after approval, vaccines are monitored for rare side effects. Dr. Offit emphasized the high safety standards upheld for vaccines intended for healthy children.
What Did RFK Jr Say About the Measles Vaccine?
Kennedy’s revised stance on the MMR vaccine was reiterated during an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash. Despite arguing about COVID-19 vaccines, Kennedy stated, “Parents should get their children vaccinated for measles. A measles vaccine is effective. It stops measles in about 97 percent of the cases. People should get vaccinated.” This confirmation comes during one of the largest U.S. measles outbreaks in years. Earlier in Senate hearings, Kennedy praised the vaccine’s effectiveness, differing from past rhetoric. He maintains he never questioned MMR vaccine efficacy, though he has previously described it as “leaky,” suggesting diminishing effectiveness over time.
How Many Cases of Measles in the US This Year?
The CDC reported 2,371 confirmed measles cases in 2026, surpassing the previous year’s total and marking the highest annual figure in over three decades. Measles cases have been reported across 45 jurisdictions, with 16 cases among international visitors. The CDC documents 37 measles outbreaks this year, with 94 percent of cases linked to these outbreaks. Measles continues to spread mainly in under-vaccinated communities as vaccination rates fall below the 95 percent threshold needed to prevent widespread transmission. In response, the CDC deployed epidemiologists, provided laboratory testing and genomic support, and supplied vaccines to local health departments. They also emphasize the MMR vaccine as the most effective tool for measles prevention.
RFK Jr: His Position on Other Vaccines
Kennedy remains skeptical of COVID-19 vaccines, supporting changes to hepatitis B vaccination recommendations for newborns. He has not clearly reversed his criticisms of the HPV vaccine. In an interview with Bash, Kennedy questioned COVID-19 vaccine efficacy for children. Dr. Offit refuted this, stating, “Every study has shown [COVID] vaccines prevent children from serious disease.” Kennedy has historically criticized the HPV vaccine, backing legal campaigns against alleged injuries. Despite some evolution in his position, there is no clear indication of full endorsement like his recent MMR advocacy. Dr. Offit noted HPV vaccination’s reduction in cervical cancer in the U.S.
Kennedy has also questioned hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. Efforts to revise the childhood immunization schedule were blocked by a federal court. The CDC upholds recommendations for hepatitis B vaccination starting at birth. Medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, defend the existing schedule against weakened recommendations.
Kennedy describes his approach as aiming for transparency and informed consent rather than outright vaccine opposition. As HHS secretary, he supports reviews and proposed changes to parts of the childhood immunization schedule. Critics argue these actions reflect continued skepticism toward established vaccine policy, even as his rhetoric becomes less confrontational.
Evidently, Kennedy’s endorsement of the MMR vaccine is stronger than for other vaccines he has traditionally criticized. He recently advised parents to vaccinate against measles, praising its effectiveness. However, his stance on COVID-19, HPV, hepatitis B, and broader immunization guidelines shows less evidence of a similar shift.
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