Health Secretary praises doctor infected with measles while treating children

In April 2025, a Texas doctor named Edwards was recorded with a measles rash on his face while treating children in a makeshift clinic set up in Seminole, Texas. This area was notably affected by a measles outbreak that had already resulted in hundreds of infections and three fatalities, including two children. About a week after this video was posted online by the advocacy group Children’s Health Defense, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Edwards and referred to him as an 'extraordinary' healer. Despite the outbreak of measles, Kennedy has not taken a strong stance to promote vaccination or publicly endorse its safety, which has raised concerns among health experts. Critics express alarm over Kennedy's decision to meet with Edwards, who has previously promoted unverified treatments for measles, as it underscores a troubling trend in public health messaging. Edwards claimed that during his infectious period, he was in contact only with patients who were already infected with measles and thus were not at risk of acquiring the disease again. However, public health experts challenge this assertion, pointing out that Edwards was in the vicinity of others, including parents and visitors, who may not have been infected. The video shows him interacting with individuals appearing healthy, calling into question the ethics of his working while infected. Jessica Steier, a public health scientist, emphasized that there are adequate healthcare providers available to treat patients who do not have measles, thus making Edwards's actions inappropriate. The overall conduct raises concerns about the implications for public health safety during a significant outbreak. Moreover, Kennedy's actions have been met with significant criticism from public health officials who argue that his endorsement of a doctor known for promoting dubious treatments contributes to public misinformation regarding vaccination. This incident exemplifies a broader issue wherein health officials may prioritize non-evidence-based practices over established medical guidance. As the measles outbreak continues to affect communities, it becomes increasingly critical for health leaders to resonate with reliable medical advice and reinforce the importance of vaccinations. In a social media-driven landscape, the interaction between health officials and controversial figures can rapidly influence public perception. As Kennedy was known for his past anti-vaccine sentiments, his praise of Edwards may inadvertently bolster dangerous narratives surrounding vaccine hesitancy. The criticism on how the situation is being handled reflects deep fears surrounding public health policy and the ongoing fight to combat misinformation concerning vaccines during health crises.