Key Findings on Measles Misinformation

• Widespread Misinformation: Nearly two-thirds of adults have encountered at least one false statement about measles or the MMR vaccine in the past year, according to data from KFF.
• MMR-autism Myth Persists: A significant 63% of adults and 61% of parents have heard the debunked claim that the MMR vaccine causes autism in children.
• Growing Belief in Myths: The prevalence of false claims is increasing. As an example,the belief that the measles vaccine is more dangerous than the disease itself has risen from 18% of adults in March 2024 to 33% in April 2025.

Belief in Measles Misinformation: A Closer Look

The KFF survey reveals a troubling trend: an increasing number of adults believe medical misinformation about measles.

• MMR-Autism Link: Nearly a quarter of adults believe it is “definitely or probably true” that the MMR vaccine causes autism. Only 34% believe this claim is “definitely false.”
• Vaccine Danger: About a fifth of adults think getting the measles vaccine is more dangerous than contracting the disease, while 43% disagree.
• Vitamin A as Prevention: Another quarter believe Vitamin A can prevent measles infections, while 27% dismiss this claim.

The Impact of Misinformation on Vaccination Rates

Limited confidence in the MMR vaccine has significant consequences. Parents who believe measles vaccine myths are 13 percentage points more likely to skip or delay childhood vaccines for their children.

• Vaccine Delay: 24% of parents who believe vaccine myths delay or skip vaccines, compared to only 11% of those who do not believe the myths.

Concern About the Measles Outbreak: A Divided Public

Awareness and concern about the measles outbreak vary across demographics.

• Awareness: 56% of the general public is aware that measles rates are higher than normal.Democrats and individuals with a college degree are more likely to be aware of the outbreak.
• Worry: 51% of adults are at least somewhat worried about the outbreak. Black (61%) and Hispanic (62%) individuals express more concern than White individuals (47%).
• Political Divide: 75% of Democrats are at least somewhat worried, compared to 27% of Republicans and 52% of Independents.

Addressing MMR Vaccine Hesitancy: A Provider’s Perspective

Combating medical misinformation and vaccine hesitancy requires healthcare providers to employ effective interaction strategies and empathy.

I’ve learned over the years that you need to be aware of all the angles and issues that concern caregivers. You need to work with parents and collaborate as a team together regarding all clinical aspects, but especially with vaccines it has far better results.
Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP

Dr. Abelowitz emphasizes the importance of understanding caregivers’ concerns and collaborating with them as a team. He suggests that providers should move away from a paternalistic approach and instead work alongside parents to assess the child’s well-being goals and address any fears they may have.

FAQ: Measles and the MMR Vaccine

Is the MMR vaccine safe?

Yes, the MMR vaccine is safe and effective.It has been used for decades and has undergone extensive testing.

does the MMR vaccine cause autism?

No, numerous studies have debunked the myth that the MMR vaccine causes autism [[1]].

How effective is the MMR vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms of measles include fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.