- An unvaccinated girl, Daisy Hildebrand, died amid a growing measles outbreak in Seminole, Texas.
- The town’s Mennonite community harbors widespread vaccine skepticism.
- Two children have died, and over 700 measles cases have been reported in the U.S. this year.
- Misinformation and reliance on natural remedies are fueling resistance to vaccination.
- Health officials warn the outbreak may worsen without urgent action.
A devastating measles outbreak has gripped Seminole, Texas, claiming young lives and revealing growing vaccine skepticism in the town’s Mennonite community.
Family Devastated After Daughter’s Death
Peter Hildebrand says his daughter Daisy didn’t die from measles. The 8-year-old passed away after being diagnosed with multiple infections, including measles. Hildebrand blames inadequate care and religious prejudice. Despite a CDC confirmation, he insists the virus was not the cause.
Community Mistrusts Vaccines Despite Mounting Deaths
DailyMail.com interviewed locals, including Mennonites, who reject vaccines due to conspiracy theories and a preference for natural remedies. Gaines County has one of the nation’s lowest vaccination rates, with 13% of students claiming exemptions.
Outbreak Numbers Keep Rising
More than 700 measles cases have been reported in the U.S. this year — 541 in Texas alone. Two unvaccinated Mennonite children, Daisy and Kayley, have died, marking the first measles deaths in the U.S. in over a decade.
Misinformation Fuels the Crisis
Locals promote alternatives like cod liver oil instead of proven vaccinations. Despite scientific data showing the MMR vaccine is 97% effective after two doses, resistance remains high. Even amid fatalities, skepticism continues to spread faster than the virus.
Town Officials Urge Action Amid Growing Fear
Local health officials are encouraging residents to get vaccinated, but turnout remains low. With weak public awareness efforts and limited engagement, the measles outbreak in Seminole may soon become the worst the U.S. has seen in decades.
