Texas parents refuse vaccine after daughter's measles death

In Texas, a Mennonite couple is facing tragedy after their six-year-old daughter, Kaylee, died from measles. Despite the loss, they have no regrets about refusing the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Kaylee's death on February 26 made her the first measles fatality in the U.S. in ten years. The parents believe that measles is beneficial for children's health and argue that the disease "wasn’t that bad." They have five unvaccinated children, all of whom got sick with measles. While four recovered without serious issues, Kaylee developed pneumonia and died after needing a ventilator. The parents spoke to Children’s Health Defense, an anti-vaccine group. They expressed their belief that measles infections are healthy for building immunity, stating, “There are doctors who can help with measles.” Measles outbreaks are spreading in Texas and New Mexico, particularly among communities with low vaccination rates. In Gaines County, where many Mennonites live, the vaccination rate is only 82%. Experts recommend a minimum of 95% vaccination to maintain herd immunity. Measles is highly contagious. Without vaccination, the risk of infection increases significantly. The MMR vaccine provides about 97% protection from the virus. Public health officials, including NHS Director of Vaccinations Steve Russell, stress the importance of vaccination to prevent serious health issues.