RFK Jr. is trying to write himself out of 2019 Samoan measles epidemic

Summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s claim that he "had nothing to do with people not vaccinating in Samoa" during the 2019 measles epidemic is not credible.

While a 2018 vaccine mishap and subsequent pause primarily caused low vaccination rates, Kennedy's engagement with the Samoan government, his promotion of anti-vaccine influencers, and his amplification of misinformation contributed to vaccine hesitancy.

The epidemic caused 83 deaths, primarily among children, with a mortality rate over 1%.

Kennedy has since downplayed his role, despite evidence of his involvement in anti-vaccine advocacy.