The U.S. faces a growing measles outbreak. At the time of this recording, there are more than 800 confirmed cases and at least three deaths, including two young children who were unvaccinated. These tragic losses were almost certainly preventable with the MMR vaccine, which is safe, highly effective and widely available.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases on earth, and it spreads quickly in communities with low vaccination rates. Once nearly eliminated in the U.S., a rise in vaccine hesitancy has opened the door for its return, fueled by misinformation, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The danger isn’t just measles. Falling vaccination rates threaten to bring back other serious, preventable diseases once under control.

In today’s episode, Ken talks with two leading experts on why it’s critical that parents and caregivers stay informed and make sure children are fully vaccinated — not just for their own safety, but for the health of our communities. The first segment is with Dr. Mike Koster, Pediatric Infectious Disease Professor at Brown University. The second segment features Jessica Malaty Rivera, MS, an infectious disease epidemiologist and award-winning science communicator.

For a deeper dive into today’s discussion:

Jessica Malaty Rivera, MS

Michael P Koster, Professor of Pediatrics, Clinician Educator

Kennedy, in His Own Words: Flu, Diabetes, Autism and More (NYTimes, January 2025)

Thimerosal and Vaccines (FDA.gov)

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center

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