Post Reports

Measles is spreading. Here’s how to stay safe.

Apr 14, 2025

Lena Sun, a national reporter from The Washington Post specializing in public health and infectious diseases, joins the discussion on the alarming rise of measles in the U.S. She dives into the causes behind the outbreak, particularly in West Texas, and the confusion stemming from mixed messages by health authorities. Sun addresses parents' concerns about vaccines, safety measures, and alternative treatments, emphasizing the critical need for community immunity and reliable health information to combat this contagious virus.

24:07

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Lena Sun

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Quick takeaways

The rise in measles cases in the U.S. highlights the need for strong vaccination messaging and public health leadership to prevent outbreaks.

Confusion surrounding vaccine necessity and ineffective alternative treatments threatens public confidence, emphasizing the importance of consulting trusted health sources.

Deep dives

Measles Outbreak and Public Health Response

The United States is currently facing a serious measles outbreak, primarily affecting Texas and spreading to neighboring states. Despite hundreds of cases and the tragic deaths of two unvaccinated children, the federal response has been criticized as inadequate and dismissive. Previously, during an outbreak in 2019, the administration emphasized the critical nature of vaccinations, urging parents to ensure their children received their shots. In contrast, the current response has downplayed the seriousness of the situation, suggesting that it is not unusual and emphasizing minimal communication from health agencies about the outbreak.

Intro

3min

Measles Resurgence: A Public Health Crisis

7min

Navigating Health Safety and Alternative Treatments

2min

Understanding Measles Vaccination

9min

Understanding the Measles Outbreak and Vaccine Safety Concerns

4min

The United States is experiencing a rise in measles, the most contagious virus in the world. Many of us have questions: Is my child protected? Do I need another vaccine? What about taking vitamin A?

Infectious disease experts worry that the Trump administration’s handling of the outbreak centered in West Texas is creating confusion and hindering an effective response.

Today on “Post Reports,” host Colby Itkowitz speaks with Lena Sun, a national reporter focused on public health and infectious diseases, about what to know about the widening measles outbreak and how families can protect themselves.

Today’s show was produced by Elana Gordon. It was edited by Maggie Penman and mixed by Sean Carter. Thanks to Lenny Bernstein.

Listen to our previous episode ”Inside Texas’s Growing Measles Outbreak.”

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