Story perspectives

70% Support Childhood Vaccines Amid Kennedy's Declining Approval

9/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

A CBS poll shows 70% of Americans favor government support for childhood vaccinations against diseases like measles and mumps.
A panel appointed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voted to stop recommending the combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccine for children under 4.
Public skepticism about vaccines has risen among the political right, but overall vaccine support remains strong.
A July KFF poll found 63% lack confidence in Kennedy's vaccine information.
Kennedy's approval ratings have dropped significantly, with 55% disapproving of his performance.

History

Historical Context

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program was established in 1996 to address vaccine-related claims, fostering public trust in immunization. By the late 1990s, childhood vaccination rates surpassed 90%. However, skepticism has surged, particularly among conservatives, as seen in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s panel's recent decision against recommending the MMRV vaccine, raising concerns about potential outbreaks of preventable diseases.

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Story summary

A CBS poll shows 70% of Americans favor government support for childhood vaccinations against diseases like measles and mumps.
A panel appointed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voted to stop recommending the combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccine for children under 4.
Public skepticism about vaccines has risen among the political right, but overall vaccine support remains strong.
A July KFF poll found 63% lack confidence in Kennedy's vaccine information.
Kennedy's approval ratings have dropped significantly, with 55% disapproving of his performance.

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