Take the Vaccine, Please,' a Top US Health Official Says in an Appeal as Measles Cases Rise

On February 8, 2026, Dr. Mehmet Oz urged Americans to get vaccinated against measles during an interview on CNN's "State of the Union." His message comes as the U.S. faces significant outbreaks in several states, notably South Carolina and along the Utah-Arizona border.

“Take the vaccine, please,” said Oz, highlighting that it provides a solution to the growing health crisis. Infections have surged, surpassing previous case counts in states like Texas from 2025. Experts warn that the rise in measles cases could be linked to a troubling increase in public distrust regarding vaccines.

The outbreaks have disproportionately affected children, and Oz acknowledged the serious risk posed by measles. He stated, “Not all illnesses are equally dangerous and not all people are equally susceptible... but measles is one you should get your vaccine.” He reassured that Medicare and Medicaid will continue to cover the costs of the measles vaccine, ensuring that access remains available for all Americans.

The context of Oz's appeal is compounded by mixed messages regarding vaccines from public health authorities and the current administration. Criticism has arisen toward Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health Secretary, for his past skepticism about vaccines, which has sparked debate within the government about public health communication and the persistence of anti-vaccine narratives.

State-level vaccination mandates for schoolchildren maintain the authority mainly at the state level, which can pose challenges given the federal administration's evolving stance on vaccine recommendations. Dr. Oz’s comments aim to navigate these controversial waters while restoring confidence in public health systems after the COVID-19 pandemic, which has fueled both misinformation and vaccination hesitancy.

If current trends continue, and if vaccine uptake does not improve, the U.S. risks reverting to conditions before the measles elimination status was established—a defeat for public health efforts and a concerning blow to child health protection measures across the nation.