Scott Gottlieb on Face the Nation – February 8, 2026 | al-bayader.com
- Measles cases are rising in the United States, prompting concern among public health officials.
- Gottlieb, who also sits on the boards of Pfizer and United Health Care, noted that approximately 750 measles cases have been reported so far this year, compared to...
- Gottlieb is the age group most affected by the current outbreak.
Measles cases are rising in the United States, prompting concern among public health officials. While not yet at levels seen in the early 1990s, the current trajectory indicates a potential for a significant outbreak this year. This assessment comes from Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), who discussed the situation on , during an appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.”
Dr. Gottlieb, who also sits on the boards of Pfizer and United Health Care, noted that approximately 750 measles cases have been reported so far this year, compared to 2000 cases reported during the entirety of the previous year. He anticipates that the final case count for 2026 will be considerably higher. “This represents going to get worse unfortunately, before it resolves,” he stated.
Shifting Demographics of Infection
A concerning trend identified by Dr. Gottlieb is the age group most affected by the current outbreak. Unlike previous outbreaks where toddlers were primarily impacted, the majority of those currently contracting measles are between the ages of five and 17. This shift is linked to declining vaccination rates, not among infants initially, but as those children enter school-age settings.
“We’re seeing vaccination rates decline among toddlers, really, as part of a broader movement away from pediatric vaccines in this country,” Dr. Gottlieb explained. “As those toddlers age into school age settings, the scope of the measles outbreaks are going to continue to escalate in this country.”
Historical Context and Vaccination Rates
The current situation echoes patterns observed in the early 1990s. In 1991, the U.S. Saw approximately 25,000 cases of measles, followed by around 10,000 cases in 1992. These higher numbers were associated with decreased vaccination rates, with only about 88% of American children vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella during that period.
While Dr. Gottlieb did not specify current vaccination rates during the interview, the implication is that rates have fallen below the threshold needed to maintain herd immunity, allowing for increased transmission of the virus. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficiently large percentage of a population is immune to a disease, making its spread unlikely.
No Immediate Need to Avoid Mass Gatherings
Despite the concerning rise in cases, Dr. Gottlieb does not currently recommend avoiding mass gatherings. However, he acknowledged the potential for further spread and emphasized the need for continued vigilance. The situation is evolving, and public health recommendations may change as more data become available.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Monitoring
The increase in measles cases highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect both individuals and the community. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles infection.
The interview with Dr. Gottlieb also touched upon other public health concerns, including a “more typical winter pathogen season,” as reported on . However, the focus of the discussion on “Face the Nation” was primarily on the escalating measles outbreak and its potential impact on public health.
The guests appearing alongside Dr. Gottlieb on ‘s “Face the Nation” included Democratic Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, Republican Representative Tony Gonzalez of Texas, and David Becker, executive director and founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research.