'Take the vaccine, please,' a top US health official says in an appeal as measles cases rise

February 8, 2026 - 21:14

A leading U.S. health official is issuing a direct appeal to the public: get vaccinated against measles. The urgent call comes as health authorities confirm a rising number of cases across several states, putting the nation's measles elimination status at potential risk.

The appeal is from Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. He emphasized the critical importance of immunization in halting the spread of the highly contagious virus. Measles outbreaks have been reported in multiple communities, largely linked to unvaccinated or under-vaccinated populations.

Health experts stress that measles is not a benign childhood illness. It can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and hospitalization. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is noted as being both safe and exceptionally effective, with two doses providing about 97% protection against the virus.

Officials are concerned that declining vaccination rates in certain areas are creating pockets of vulnerability. This allows the virus, which was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, to gain a foothold and spread within communities. The current outbreaks serve as a stark reminder that herd immunity is essential to protect those who cannot be vaccinated, including infants and individuals with specific medical conditions. Public health leaders continue to underscore that vaccination remains the most reliable defense.