Doctor with measles: A risky move in Texas outbreak

A doctor in Texas, who was treating kids during a measles outbreak, was seen with the telltale measles rash. This was just days before a high-ranking health official met him and gave him a big thumbs up. The doctor, Ben Edwards, was caught on camera in a makeshift clinic, chatting with parents and kids. He admitted he had measles, saying he felt fine despite having a mild fever and rash the day before. Measles is super contagious, spreading easily before and after the rash shows up. Health experts were shocked that Edwards chose to work in the clinic while infected. They warned that his actions put many people at risk, including kids, parents, and the whole community. They couldn't see any good reason for his choice. Edwards, however, claimed he only treated people who already had measles, so he didn't put anyone new in danger. The health official, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , met Edwards a week after the video surfaced. Kennedy praised Edwards and another doctor for using unproven measles treatments. This move raised eyebrows, especially since Kennedy has been criticized for not strongly pushing vaccines during the outbreak. Some experts think Kennedy's actions show a troubling approach to medicine and public health. The video also sparked questions about safety measures. Edwards wasn't wearing a mask, and it's unclear how he confirmed who was sick. A public health scientist pointed out that there were plenty of healthy providers who could have stepped in. She also worried about the message sent by a top health official endorsing Edwards' actions. The situation highlights a bigger issue: the spread of misinformation and the role of influential figures in public health. With measles cases surging, the choices made by leaders and healthcare providers are under intense scrutiny. The focus should be on proven methods to control the outbreak and protect the public, especially the most vulnerable.