Have RFK and MAHA really changed American views on vaccines?

Have RFK and MAHA really changed American views on vaccines?

From More or Less by BBC Radio 4

April 25, 2026 · 9 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the shifting American views on vaccines amidst political changes and recent health crises.

Vaccine policy in the US is something of an ideological battleground. Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is a vaccine sceptic, and since taking office he has attempted to remake US vaccine policy. In March a judge blocked his proposal to cut the number of jabs that are recommended for kids. At the same time, last year saw the worst measles outbreak in the US in decades. There were more than 2000 cases last year, and three people died. There have been more than 1500 cases so far in 2026. There’s a lot going on, so it’s possible the public’s views on vaccination are shifting. A new poll published by online news site Politico added a big claim into the mix. According to the headline “more Americans doubt vaccine safety than trust it”. But is that what the survey actually found? Dr David Higgins, a paediatrician and public health assistant professor who writes a Substack called Community Immunity, explains why he believes the headline is misleading. If you've seen a number in the news you think we should take a look at, email moreorless@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Charlotte McDonald Series producer: Tom Colls Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown Sound mix: Neil Churchill Editor: Richard…

People in this episode

Host: Charlotte McDonald

Guest: Dr David Higgins

Topics covered

  • vaccine policy
  • public health
  • American views on vaccines
  • measles outbreak
  • poll analysis

Keywords

  • vaccines
  • RFK Jr
  • measles outbreak
  • vaccine safety
  • public opinion

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Politico

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