FDA Commissioner's Evasive Response on Measles Vaccine Sparks Debate

FDA Commissioner Dodges Measles Vaccine Question Amid Outbreak Washington, D.C. - May 15, 2025 - In a recent interview with NBC News, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary faced pointed questioning regarding his stance on the measles vaccine. The interview, conducted on May 13th, comes amidst a concerning measles outbreak affecting various communities across the United States. When asked directly if he recommends the measles vaccine, Dr. Makary provided an indirect answer, focusing instead on the way the outbreak is being connected to certain groups. "Look, I believe vaccines save lives," Dr. Makary stated, but he avoided a direct recommendation. The interviewer, Ellison Barber, pressed further, highlighting the severity of the situation and the conflicting statements from the administration. "These are Mennonite communities… there are at least 10 active outbreaks right now. My question is, do you recommend the MMR vaccine for most Americans? Yes or no?" she asked. Dr. Makary's reluctance to offer a clear recommendation has sparked debate and underscores the need for transparent communication on public health matters during health crises. The incident highlights the complexities of navigating public health messaging and the importance of clear, decisive communication from leaders in the field.