FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Brooke Strausbaugh | Brooke.Strausbaugh@mail.house.gov | 202-870-1714
CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE FIGHTS BACK AGAINST TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S DANGEROUS ANTI-HEALTH AGENDA
In the wake of increased measles cases across the United States, Morelle highlights importance and effectiveness of vaccinations for infants and children
April 24, 2025 (Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle was joined by members of the Monroe County Medical Society and local parent advocates in a renewed commitment to fighting for the health, safety, and well-being of every child in our community.
“It’s been over 20 years since a child in America has died of measles. But because of misinformation about the measles vaccine being peddled by the Trump Administration, we have already lost two children this year alone—and that number will only go up,” said Congressman Morelle. “We need to push back on this dangerous agenda that is a reckless endangerment to public health. I’m fighting in Washington to keep our families safe, and I’m grateful to all our incredible local partners who have stood beside me in these efforts.”
“As President of the Monroe County Medical Society, I want to speak to our community about a shared concern—our health and the safety of those we care about. Recent measles cases across the country are a reminder of how quickly some diseases can return. Measles is highly contagious and can be serious, especially for children and those with weakened immune systems,” said Monroe County Medical Society President Dr. Janine Fogarty. “Vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and others. We know health decisions are personal, and navigating information can be difficult. That’s why we encourage open, trusting conversations with your healthcare provider. Together, with compassion and care, we can keep our community healthy and strong.”
“Measles is a serious viral disease that caused 400-500 deaths per year in the US before the vaccine was introduced in the 1960s. Worldwide, an estimated 60 million deaths have been averted in the last 25 years due to vaccine mandates,” said Dr. Catherine Goodfellow. “Increasing hesitancy to vaccinate has led to increasing numbers of cases in the US, and already two deaths this year because of this infection. It will take a concerted effort by the medical community and responsible parents to hold this infection at bay and protect our most vulnerable children.”
“As a new parent of a young child, it is very important to me to have open communication and a trusting relationship with my son's pediatrician. Working collaboratively with his doctor allows me to continue to make the best decisions to ensure his protection as he grows,” said Morgan Tymoch, a parent to one of Dr. Goodfellow’s patients. “Choosing to vaccinate my son was an easy decision because I believe in the safety and efficacy of them. Vaccines can protect my son in ways that I cannot which gives me peace of mind.”
While the Trump administration fails to invest in proven vaccinations, the United States is facing a troubling resurgence of measles, a disease once declared eliminated in 2000 thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. Currently, more than 850 measles cases have been confirmed across the United States—more than ten times the total seen during all of 2023 and the second-highest total since 2000. Public health experts have traced many of these outbreaks to international travel and declining vaccination rates in pockets of the country, especially among children.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in existence and can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. The New York State Department of Health has sounded the alarm over the spread of Measles around the world and in New York, encouraging everyone to ensure they have received their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines.
New York State has seen clusters of confirmed cases reported in New York City and surrounding counties. In March, a measles outbreak in Brooklyn drew attention to concerningly low vaccination rates in some communities—well below the herd immunity threshold needed to prevent transmission. As a result, local health departments have issued alerts urging residents to confirm their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination status. Statewide, the measles vaccination rate sits around 81%, but in certain counties it has dropped closer to 55%, leaving thousands of New Yorkers vulnerable. Public health officials warn that without immediate intervention and renewed commitment to vaccination, these outbreaks could intensify in the coming months, endangering families and children across the state.
To keep you and your loved ones safe from measles—or to know what to do if you think you may be sick—visit the New York Department of Health website here.
For more information on Congressman Morelle’s ongoing efforts to provide safe, high-quality, and affordable healthcare to everyone, visit his website here.
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2025.04.24 CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE FIGHTS BACK AGAINST TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S DANGEROUS ANTI-HEALTH AGENDA.pdf
