NewsSuncoast SearchlightAugust 28, 2026Sarasota County
CDC attributes measles outbreaks to vaccination gaps, not immigration
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies vaccination gaps as the primary cause of recent measles outbreaks, contradicting claims that link the outbreaks to illegal immigration. This clarification follows statements made by Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds during a televised interview.
Read the full story at Suncoast SearchlightWhy It Matters
Public health officials are clarifying the causes of measles transmission to address public concerns regarding the source of recent outbreaks.
Key Facts
- The CDC states that recent measles outbreaks are caused by vaccination gaps.
- The CDC explicitly rejects the claim that measles outbreaks are caused by illegal immigration.
- Byron Donalds claimed on CBS' Face the Nation on Aug. 23 that measles outbreaks are linked to illegal immigration.
Who's Mentioned
organizationSuncoast Searchlight“Publisher of the fact check.”personByron Donalds“Florida GOP gubernatorial candidate who made claims regarding measles and immigr”otherFace the Nation“The television program where the claims were made.”other2,800“Total confirmed measles cases in the U.S. as of Aug. 20, 2025.”organizationCommunity News Collaborative, Inc.“Nonprofit corporation behind Suncoast Searchlight.”other2,289“Total confirmed measles cases in the U.S. for the previous year.”other800“Number of measles cases analyzed in the first half of 2025.”organizationCenter for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal agency providing data on measles outbreaks.”organizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“The federal agency responsible for public health guidance.”