Fears of a severe measles outbreak have grown as public confidence in vaccines for childhood diseases, including measles, has declined in recent years, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. The four-day survey, which ended on Monday, found that while most Americans across political lines still support pediatric measles vaccinations, trust in these vaccines has eroded. Measles, a highly contagious disease that causes fever, rash, and respiratory symptoms, was nearly eliminated in the U.S. over two decades ago. However, declining vaccination rates have led to its resurgence, with over 3,000 confirmed cases reported this year—the highest number in 35 years. The poll revealed that about 76% of adults view measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) immunizations as safe for children, down from 84% in May 2020. This decline in trust was most pronounced among Republicans, following efforts by some party figures to downplay the importance of vaccines. In August, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to reduce the recommended federal childhood vaccine schedule from 17 to 11 immunizations. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine advocate before being appointed health secretary by Trump, has since pushed for changes to national vaccine policy to reduce the number of recommended pediatric shots. Outbreaks are currently occurring in several states, including Pennsylvania, Utah, and South Carolina. Pennsylvania has reported three measles-related deaths this year, the most recent of which was announced last month. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the MMR vaccine is 97% effective in preventing measles, with children typically receiving two doses at 12 to 15 months and again at 4 to 6 years. However, MMR coverage among kindergarteners fell to 92.5% last year, below the 95% threshold needed to maintain herd immunity—protection for those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Public opinion on Trump’s handling of the outbreak has been largely negative, with only 19% of poll respondents approving of his actions, compared to 52% who disapproved. Trump has made few public statements regarding the outbreak, even as the U.S. risks losing its official status as a country that eliminated measles due to ongoing domestic transmission. Registered voters favored Democrats over Republicans by 45% to 25% when asked which party is better suited to handle infectious diseases like measles. However, public health issues remain secondary to voters' concerns, with 58% citing the cost of living as their primary worry. Meanwhile, Kennedy has continued to spread debunked claims about the MMR vaccine, including the assertion that it contains materials from aborted fetal tissue.