A recent poll reveals most Americans are worried about how the government is handling the current measles outbreak.
The measles outbreak is the largest in 25 years, with over 1,000 cases and three deaths.
The poll, conducted by Reuters and Ipsos, found that 40% of Americans think the government has not handled the outbreak well.
Only 31% said they were confident in the government’s handling of the situation.
The remaining 29% were either unsure or didn’t respond.
The poll highlights a significant partisan divide on the issue.
57% of Republicans believe the government has handled the outbreak responsibly.
In contrast, 75% of Democrats disagree, saying the government’s response has been inadequate.
Among independents, 26% think the government has done a good job.
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is highly effective, preventing infection in 97% of people who receive two doses.
Despite its proven track record, vaccination rates in the US have been declining due to misinformation surrounding the vaccine.
86% of Americans believe the MMR vaccine is safe for children, while 13% think it’s not.
This represents a slight increase in vaccine skepticism compared to 2020.
76% of respondents think parents should ensure their children get vaccinated.
However, opinions are divided on whether parents should have the right to choose.
47% believe they should, while 44% think they shouldn’t.
The divide is largely along party lines, with 59% of Republicans supporting parental choice and 61% of Democrats opposing it.
Vaccination rates among kindergarteners have dropped from 95.2% in 2019-2020 to 92.7% in 2023-2024, falling below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
Some areas, like Gaines County, Texas, have vaccination rates as low as 82%, making them hotspots for the outbreak.
The outbreak has now spread to Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, with one adult death reported.
The poll’s findings underscore the ongoing challenges in addressing vaccine misinformation and ensuring public health.
The source of this information is a Reuters report.