The recent measles outbreak in West Texas has caused growing concern, especially after the death of an 8-year-old girl named Daisy Hildebrand. She is the second child in the region to die from measles in recent months. Following this tragic incident, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., under President Donald Trump’s administration, visited Texas to offer support and assess the situation.
Second Child Dies From Measles in Texas
Daisy Hildebrand died early Thursday due to measles pulmonary failure while receiving treatment at a hospital in Lubbock. Her death marks the second confirmed fatality from measles in the state in 2025, and the second measles-related child death in the U.S. in a decade. Kennedy, who also attended the girl’s funeral, said his visit was meant to quietly support grieving families and communities.
The Spread of Measles in West Texas and Nearby States
Since January, West Texas has recorded 480 cases of measles, with 56 hospitalisations. Neighbouring states like New Mexico and Oklahoma have also reported cases – 54 and 10 respectively. Public health officials fear the outbreak could last for up to a year, threatening the area’s measles elimination status earned back in 2000.
Measles is a highly contagious disease. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room, and spreads through coughing, sneezing, or even breathing.
The Role of Vaccination in Preventing Measles
Health experts agree that the best way to prevent measles is through the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Just two doses are enough to offer 97% protection. Sadly, both children who died were unvaccinated. The UMC Health System confirmed that Daisy had no underlying health conditions and had not received the vaccine.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has a history of vaccine skepticism, has faced criticism for promoting alternative treatments like cod liver oil and vitamin A. However, he has recently admitted that the MMR vaccine is the most effective tool to prevent the disease. He said that CDC teams have been redeployed to Texas to support state efforts.
Criticism and Political Reactions
Kennedy’s past views on vaccines have sparked debate, especially now, when strong leadership is needed to contain the outbreak. Dr. Peter Marks, a former top vaccine official at the FDA, directly blamed Kennedy and his team for influencing the environment that led to preventable deaths. He called Daisy’s death “a needless tragedy.”
Senator Bill Cassidy, a doctor and member of the Senate health committee, also stressed the importance of vaccination. He said clearly that there is “no benefit to getting measles,” and top health officials should encourage vaccination without hesitation.
Kennedy is expected to testify before the Senate health committee this Thursday.
Growing Measles Cases in the U.S.
As of early April 2025, over 600 measles cases have been reported across the country, more than double the number from the entire year of 2024. However, health officials warn that the actual number might be much higher, as many people are not getting tested.
Lubbock’s public health director Katherine Wells urged families to vaccinate their children. According to the CDC, the MMR vaccine has been safely used for decades and is essential to prevent the spread of dangerous diseases like measles.
