As the United States battles its worst measles outbreak in decades, a disturbing controversy is brewing. Public health is being complicated not just by the virus's spread but also by the promotion of suspicious medical practices at the top levels of leadership. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., long-time critic of mandatory vaccinations and current Health Secretary, has openly endorsed a Texas physician who saw patients with children while actually infected with measles an action warned by health officials to potentially have devastating effects on public health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported measles infections skyrocketed to 884 cases of confirmed infection in 29 states during 2025, with areas of concentration being Texas, New York, California, and other regions. Texas alone represents 646 cases, making it the center of the outbreak. Scarily, at least six states, Indiana and Ohio included, have shown outbreaks, a definition used when there are three or more linked cases. The increase has already killed at least three people, two of whom are young children.

The measles resurgence is a grim reminder of just how easily highly infectious measles can re-establish itself among populations, particularly if vaccination is below par. Deemed eradicated in the United States as far back as 2000, measles teeters on the cusp of endemically reintroducing itself today—a failure at public health for which increasing numbers of professionals presume vaccine hesitation lies at its center.

In recent interviews, Kennedy has doubled down on his views that natural immunity is superior to vaccine-induced protection. On Fox News, he wistfully remembered a day when "everybody got measles" and acquired lifelong immunity. It is true that measles infection normally provides lasting immunity, but the disease also poses serious risks, such as encephalitis, blindness, and death—risks that have been greatly diminished by vaccines.

Kennedy has posited that the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is capable of producing adverse reactions and should always be a question of individual choice and not one of public health mandate. Nonetheless, public health officials emphasize that the risks entailed by the vaccine are phenomenally low relative to the threat posed by the disease itself.

Controversy mounted when a video appeared depicting Dr. Ben Edwards, a Texas doctor, seeing patients while obviously infected with measles. Filmed in a pop-up clinic established by anti-vaccine activists, the video depicts Edwards affirming he came down with symptoms--including a rash and low-grade fever--a day before the footage was taken.

Even though he knew he was contagious, Edwards kept seeing patients without proper protective equipment, such as an N95 mask. Experts say this action probably infected countless people particularly children and their families with a potentially deadly virus.

Rather than condemning Edwards' actions, Kennedy greeted him days later and publicly endorsed him on social media as an "extraordinary healer." Together with another doctor, Edwards was praised for advocating alternative care such as vitamins and cod liver oil—none of which are shown to prevent or cure measles.

Risk of Misinformation

Top health experts have been quick to denounce both Edwards' behavior and Kennedy's support. Measles is one of the most infectious diseases known to science, with the virus able to remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected individual has vacated the room. People are infectious for a number of days before and after the rash has erupted.

Dr. Saad Omer, Director of the Yale Institute for Global Health, has declared the move "an egregious violation of basic public health principles," warning that endorsement by officials could encourage others to disregard safety measures and fuel outbreaks even further.

Worryingly, Dr. Edwards himself disclosed in the video that he'd been given numerous doses of MMR vaccine and yet had got measles, insisting that vaccine-acquired immunity "wears off." Health officials explain that whereas immunity would inevitably wane fractionally over years, two shots of MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective in avertting measles.

Why Measles May Become Endemic?

The stakes are high. Recent research from Stanford University shows that even slight declines in vaccination rates could make measles endemic in the United States within two decades. A 10-percentage-point drop could lead to millions of cases over 25 years, reversing decades of public health progress.

The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted childhood immunizations worldwide, but vaccine hesitancy had already been increasing prior to 2020, driven by misinformation campaigns and politicized rhetoric. In a time when skepticism of health authorities is on the rise, the implications of such distrust could be disastrous.

Public health experts are calling for action now to slow the current epidemic and avoid future ones. Getting more people vaccinated—even by 5%—would dramatically decrease the number of future cases of measles, keep vulnerable groups such as infants and immunocompromised patients safe, and save lives.

Measles Prevention

Parents should feel free to discuss vaccine safety and effectiveness openly with pediatricians. Policymakers need to re-emphasize school-entry vaccine mandates and continue working to push back against lethal disinformation.

The MMR shot is still the gold standard of protection. The CDC recommends that children should get two doses and that travelers should make sure to get vaccinated a minimum of two weeks prior to traveling internationally. As this current outbreak proves, complacency is not an option.

As measles cases increase and public trust in vaccines erodes, America is at a crossroads. Leaders can be the voice of reason and protect communities—or fan confusion that gives preventable illnesses an opportunity to flourish. RFK Jr.'s recent actions and endorsements speak to the urgent need for evidence-based, clear leadership on public health. The most vulnerable depend on it.

Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke has once again faced a health struggle that affects millions around the globe, skin cancer. Clarke, 44, posted on social media that he recently had surgery to have a suspicious growth removed from his nose. His post was not just about healing, but also an appeal: get your skin checked.

This reminder from a sports legend underscores a pressing global health issue. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, Australia, and many other parts of the world. The good news is that when detected early, most cases are highly treatable but that early detection depends on awareness knowing what skin cancer looks like and when to seek medical help.

Clarke's recent diagnosis is not his initial experience with skin cancer. In 2006, doctors operated on him to remove suspicious marks on his face and chest. They removed them surgically before they were able to do further damage. Again in 2019, he had surgery to have cancerous tumors removed from his forehead.

Now, in 2025, his post-surgery update again emphasizes how skin cancer can be a recurring aspect for those at risk. Clarke had penned, "Skin cancer is real! Particularly in Australia. Another one removed from my nose today. A friendly reminder to have your skin checked. Prevention is better than the cure but in my case, regular check-ups and early detection is the key."

Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer on the planet because of high levels of UV radiation. However, Clarke's experience sounds off far beyond his native soil. In the United States alone, more than 5 million instances of skin cancer are treated annually, the American Cancer Society says.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow out of control, penetrating surrounding tissue and occasionally spreading to other organs. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) light is the primary cause, though indoor tanning is also a culprit. There are three types of skin cancer with varying risks and appearances:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most frequent one. BCC typically appears as a flesh-colored bump, pearl-like growth, or pinkish lesion. It usually develops on sun-exposed sites such as the face, neck, and arms. Although it does not spread much, if left untreated, it can produce extensive local destruction.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The second most frequent type. SCC can be a hard red bump, scaly area, or sore that closes up and reopens. It often occurs on sun-exposed areas like the ears, lips, and face. If left alone, SCC can grow and invade deeper tissues.

Melanoma: The most life-threatening form. Melanoma can develop in a pre-existing mole or as a new dark spot that appears different from surrounding markings. It grows more quickly than other skin cancers, so catching it early is paramount.

SCC can develop from a precancerous skin growth: Actinic keratoses are primarily caused by cumulative sun exposure and tend to develop on areas of the body that get the most sunlight, including the face, scalp, neck, hands, and forearms. People with fair skin are more likely to develop these patches, but they can occur in anyone with a history of significant sun exposure.

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

One of the difficulties with skin cancer is that its early signs are simple to overlook or assume to be harmless. However, being in a position to recognize these alterations can be the difference between life and death. General warning signals are:

• A new growth that looks like a mole, bump, or scab.
• An open sore that does not heal.
• A patch of skin that is rough or scaly.
• Alterations in a mole getting larger, darker, or becoming irregular in shape.
• Persistent itching or pain around a skin spot.

Doctors recommend following the ABCDE rule for melanoma:

Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.

Color: Uneven colors—brown, black, red, or white patches.

Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

Evolving: Any mole or spot that changes in shape, size, or symptoms.

Where Skin Cancer Can Appear?

Most individuals think that skin cancer only occurs on sun-exposed skin. Although it is correct that the scalp, face, neck, arms, and hands are the most susceptible, cancers can occur on less visible locations:

• Under the toenail or fingernail.
• On the palms or soles of the feet.
• Around the genitals.
• On the back, which individuals might seldom examine themselves.

This is particularly the case for individuals with darker skin. In these individuals, melanoma and other types tend to appear on less sun-exposed areas, i.e., under nails or on the feet.

Who Is at Greatest Risk?

Anyone may get skin cancer, but certain individuals have a higher risk based on specific characteristics. People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are at greater risk, as are those with past histories of severe sunburns, particularly blistering. Frequent sun exposure with poor protection and tanning bed use also increase the risk of skin cancer. An inheritance pattern of the illness or compromised immune system further increases the risk. Michael Clarke's years of cricket playing in the strong Australian sunlight emphasize how long-term exposure to the sun can dramatically raise the risk of skin cancer.

Is Skin Cancer Preventable?

While you cannot alter your genes or your skin type, you can lower your risk considerably:

• Use sunscreen daily with SPF 30 or better. Apply every two hours when you're outside.
• Wear protective gear, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves.
• Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest.
• Steer clear of tanning beds, which release cancer-causing UV radiation.
• Have your skin checked regularly, both at home and by a dermatologist.

Clarke's focus on early diagnosis is echoed in medical guidance: the sooner you detect changes, the greater the potential for effective treatment.

Why Regular Checkups Are So Important?

Skin cancer often develops silently. A small bump today may not cause pain but could evolve into something dangerous over time. Clarke’s case illustrates why vigilance is critical even after previous treatments. Recurrence is possible, and only regular screenings can catch issues before they progress.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends annual full-body skin checks for most adults, and more frequent exams for those with higher risk factors.

Michael Clarke's candor regarding his diagnosis puts a spotlight on a public health problem that affects the entire world. His tale is not merely that of an athlete undergoing another surgery it is a reminder to all, wherever they may be in the world, that skin cancer exists, is prevalent, and is frequently preventable.

Legionnaires Outbreak: Public health officials in London, Ontario, have redeclared a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak after 25 new cases emerged, weeks after declaring the situation under control. The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) confirmed Tuesday that testing has identified a likely source: cooling towers at Sofina Foods Inc., a large meat-processing facility on Trafalgar Street.

Outbreak Declared Over, Then Returned

The outbreak was first detected in early July and by early August had led to 70 confirmed cases and three deaths. After three weeks without new infections, the MLHU declared the outbreak over on August 6. But within days, new patients began appearing.

As of this week, the caseload has climbed to 94, including 86 hospitalizations and four deaths. Six patients remain in hospital. Officials say the resurgence highlights how the bacteria can persist in contaminated environments despite earlier cleaning efforts.

“For several weeks, no additional illnesses were reported, and we were optimistic that remediation efforts had eliminated the bacteria. However, 25 more people have now become ill,” said Dr. Joanne Kearon, associate medical officer of health. “Fortunately, a likely source has now been identified.”

Read: Legionnaires Outbreak in New York: All That You Need To Know About The Disease

Cooling Towers Traced as the Source

Extensive environmental testing linked the outbreak strain of Legionella bacteria to Sofina Foods’ cooling towers. Samples taken in recent weeks matched the same bacterial subtype found in patient cases.

While nine different cooling towers across the city initially tested positive for live bacteria, the Sofina plant produced a definitive genetic match. Earlier testing at the site in 2024 and early 2025 had shown no match, but officials said the bacteria can survive in cooling towers and regrow under hot, humid conditions.

The health unit emphasized that food products from Sofina remain safe to consume, since Legionnaires’ disease spreads only through inhaling contaminated water droplets, not through eating or drinking.

Sofina Foods Responds

Sofina Foods, which employs hundreds of workers in London’s east end, said the new findings were “unexpected” given the company’s daily sanitation protocols and previous negative test results.

“We are deeply concerned with this new information and are continuing to investigate fully,” said Sharon Begley, Sofina’s chief safety officer. “Over and above our regular processes, we conducted further deep cleaning and disinfecting processes recommended by MLHU. The cooling tower is offline and will remain offline until these additional steps are completed.”

The company stressed its commitment to employee and community safety, noting it has been cooperating closely with public health authorities since the outbreak began.

How Legionnaires’ Spreads

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. It is not transmitted from person to person. Instead, people get sick when they inhale mist or small droplets of water containing the bacteria, which can be carried by wind from sources such as cooling towers, hot tubs, and water systems.

Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 10 days of exposure and may include fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Most exposed individuals do not get sick, but older adults, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems face greater risk of serious illness.

The current outbreak has been concentrated in a six-kilometre radius in London, with cases ranging from young adults to seniors. No children have been affected to date.

Also Read: Legionnaires' Outbreak Update: It Is No Longer 'Only A New York Problem'

More Cases Possible

Dr. Kearon warned that more cases could surface due to the bacteria’s incubation period. “Legionella has an incubation period of two to 10 days ... there may still be further cases in the next two weeks,” she said.

This year’s outbreak is already the largest in London’s recent history, surpassing a 2024 outbreak that caused 30 cases and two deaths. Officials say they are working with Sofina Foods and other operators to ensure thorough remediation and prevent further spread.

“The decision to reopen the outbreak reflects a rise in cases after several weeks without new cases, suggesting that the Legionella bacteria has re-emerged in the environment despite earlier remediation efforts,” MLHU said in a statement.

Eli Lilly has taken a major step in the fight against obesity and diabetes. The company announced that its oral GLP-1 drug, orforglipron, successfully met the “primary and all key secondary endpoints” in a large clinical trial, paving the way for global regulatory submissions.

“With these positive data in hand, we are moving with urgency toward global regulatory submissions to potentially meet the needs of patients who are waiting,” said Kenneth Custer, Eli Lilly’s executive vice president and president of cardiometabolic health.

“If approved, we are ready to offer a convenient, once-daily pill that can be scaled globally, removing barriers and redefining how obesity is treated around the world.”

What Is Orforglipron?

Orforglipron is an investigational, non-peptide, once-daily small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist. Unlike some oral medications that come with strict food or water restrictions, it can be taken at any time of day without such limitations.

Originally discovered by Japan’s Chugai Pharmaceutical and later licensed to Eli Lilly in 2018, orforglipron is now in Phase 3 trials. The company is testing it not just for weight management and type 2 diabetes but also for conditions linked to obesity, including obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension.

The ATTAIN-2 Trial Results

The company’s latest clinical trial, called ATTAIN-2, produced results that have drawn significant attention. At the highest dose: 36 mg daily for 72 weeks, participants saw an average weight loss of 22.9 pounds (10.5%), compared to just 5.1 pounds (2.2%) among those given a placebo.

The drug also delivered strong results for people with type 2 diabetes. Across doses, orforglipron reduced A1C levels by 1.3% to 1.8% from a baseline of 8.1%. Notably, 75% of participants who took the highest dose achieved an A1C of 6.5% or below, aligning with the American Diabetes Association’s definition of diabetes remission.

Beyond weight and blood sugar, orforglipron showed broader health benefits. The trial reported improvements in cardiovascular risk factors such as non-HDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and triglyceride levels. In an exploratory analysis, the drug also cut high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a key marker of inflammation, by about 50%.

Read: Serena Williams Opens Up About Losing 31 lbs With GLP-1 Medication; Is This Breaking Stigma Or Joining The Trend?

Why An Oral Option Matters

Injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide have already transformed obesity and diabetes care, but accessibility remains a hurdle. For many patients, injections are intimidating, inconvenient, or simply not practical in daily life.

That’s where an oral pill could be a game-changer. A once-daily tablet could remove psychological and logistical barriers, making it easier for patients to stay on treatment. And given the rising global burden of obesity, which significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and some cancers, the demand for more convenient treatment options has never been greater.

Pills vs. Injections: Which Works Better?

The big question now is whether oral GLP-1 drugs are as effective as their injectable counterparts.

A 2021 research review published in Springer Nature, offers some clues. After examining multiple studies, researchers concluded that oral semaglutide, a similar class of drug, provided “similar or better efficacy and similar tolerability” compared to injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Also Read: How To Identify A Counterfeit Ozempic? Look For These Signs

In some cases, oral versions were found to be just as effective for weight loss and lowering A1C levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, the review focused on patients already using insulin, which may have influenced outcomes. Experts emphasize that while results are encouraging, more research is still needed to directly compare oral and injectable versions in broader populations.

For now, injections remain the gold standard in clinical practice. Drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro (both injectables) have shown weight reductions of 15% to 20% or more in major trials, higher than the 10.5% seen with orforglipron in ATTAIN-2. That said, the convenience of a pill could tip the balance for many patients, especially those reluctant to use injections long-term.

Eli Lilly’s oral GLP-1 drug is not yet approved, but the latest results highlight its potential to reshape treatment strategies for obesity.