RFK Jr.’s Evolving Stance on Vaccines Amid Measles Outbreak

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., long recognized as a prominent critic of vaccines, has recently shown stronger public support for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This shift comes amid a surge in measles cases across the United States. Although Kennedy, now the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary, has softened his stance on the MMR vaccine, his views on COVID-19, HPV, hepatitis B, and other routine vaccines remain largely unchanged.

Support for the MMR Vaccine

Since his appointment as HHS Secretary, Kennedy has acknowledged the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine in preventing measles and has advised parents to vaccinate their children. In an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash, 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.”

Development and Standards of Vaccines

Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, emphasized that vaccines undergo an extensive development process. It involves years of research and multiple phases of clinical trials. The FDA and CDC review the results before approval, and post-licensure studies continue to monitor vaccine safety.

Kennedy’s Position on Other Vaccines

Despite his changed position on the MMR vaccine, Kennedy remains skeptical of COVID-19 vaccines and has supported hepatitis B vaccination recommendation revisions for newborns. He has not clearly reversed his criticisms of the HPV vaccine either.

Kennedy’s comments on MMR have drawn attention amid one of the largest U.S. measles outbreaks in years. He has previously described the MMR vaccine as “leaky” and questioned its long-term efficacy.

Measles Outbreak in the U.S.

The CDC reported 2,371 confirmed measles cases as of July 30, 2026, surpassing previous records. These cases span 45 jurisdictions, with 37 outbreaks recorded. The resurgence is primarily among under-vaccinated communities. Health officials note that MMR vaccination rates below 95 percent contribute to transmission.

The CDC has sent epidemiologists to help affected states, providing testing, data analysis, and vaccine support. They emphasize that the MMR vaccine remains the most effective tool to combat measles.

Criticism of COVID-19 and HPV Vaccines

Kennedy has continued to question COVID-19 vaccination recommendations, particularly for children, arguing against their risk-benefit profile. He has long criticized the HPV vaccine and supported campaigns highlighting alleged vaccine injuries. While his position on some vaccines seems to mature, he has not fully embraced the HPV vaccine.

Dr. Offit notes the significant reduction in cervical cancer cases in the U.S. due to HPV vaccination.

Hepatitis B Vaccine and Routine Vaccination Schedule

Kennedy also questioned the recommendation of administering hepatitis B vaccines at birth. Under his leadership, federal attempts to revise vaccination schedules were blocked by a court order, and the CDC’s guidance remains unchanged. Medical groups support the existing schedule, emphasizing its importance.

Kennedy describes his approach as focused on transparency and informed consent, yet critics argue his proposals reflect skepticism toward established vaccine policy. Recently, he has endorsed the MMR vaccine more openly than other vaccines he previously criticized.