The resurgence of measles in the United States is raising alarms as reported cases continue to escalate. During an interview on “Face the Nation” with Margaret Brennan on February 8, 2026, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration and board member of Pfizer and United Healthcare, expressed grave concerns about the ongoing outbreaks. With approximately 900 reported cases in South Carolina, the state is experiencing its largest outbreak since the disease was declared eliminated.
Dr. Gottlieb noted that while mass gatherings are not currently a major concern, the situation is expected to deteriorate before it improves. He highlighted that last year, the U.S. recorded 2,000 measles cases, and this year has already seen 750 cases. He predicts that the total will be significantly higher by the end of the year. The majority of those infected are aged between five and 17, indicating a troubling trend linked to declining vaccination rates among younger children.
Vaccination Rates and Public Health Risks
Dr. Gottlieb emphasized that vaccination rates are critical to preventing outbreaks. Currently, about 90% of American children are vaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). However, in some states experiencing outbreaks, such as Alaska and Texas, vaccination rates have dropped to as low as 81% and 88% respectively. He cited historical data from the early 1990s when similar declines in vaccination led to a spike in cases, with approximately 25,000 reported in 1991.
As the trend of lower vaccination rates continues, Dr. Gottlieb warned that the risk of broader and larger outbreaks increases. He pointed out that measles is highly contagious, with herd immunity requiring a vaccination rate of around 95%. Currently, many communities are falling well below this threshold, exacerbating the public health crisis.
Global Context of Vaccine Hesitancy
The challenges facing the U.S. are part of a larger global trend. Dr. Gottlieb remarked that countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and several in Europe and Central Asia have also lost their measles elimination status, signaling a widespread anti-vaccine movement. He attributed much of this hesitancy to the COVID-19 pandemic, where state mandates for vaccinations may have fueled backlash against vaccines.
Dr. Gottlieb referenced statements made by Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, the National Institutes of Health director, during a recent hearing. When pressed about the link between vaccines and autism, Dr. Bhattacharya stated that no credible studies support such claims, a response that he later felt was mischaracterized. Dr. Gottlieb highlighted the need for clarity and consistency in messaging from health officials to combat misinformation and restore public confidence in vaccinations.
The former FDA commissioner concluded with a personal reflection on the importance of vaccines, noting his own experience with Epstein-Barr Virus, which led to serious health complications. He underscored that the belief that infections are not severe enough to warrant vaccination is misleading and dangerous.
As the situation evolves, Dr. Gottlieb’s insights stress the urgent need for continued public education on the significance of vaccinations to combat the rising threat of measles and other preventable diseases.
