The new figure comes as HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has repeatedly delivered mixed messages about the outbreak — saying the vaccine is the best way to prevent measles while spreading misinformation about the shot, including saying it contains aborted fetus debris.

U.S. measles cases have reached another grim milestone this year, surpassing 1,000, according to new analysis based on data from the CDC and state health departments. Many of the cases are linked to an outbreak in West Texas, but most states have reported the disease.

“Our commitment is to support all families, regardless of their vaccination status, in reducing the risk of hospitalization, serious complications and death from measles,” Andrew Nixon, an HHS spokesperson, told the outlet. He said the move to explore alternatives is aimed at helping those who choose not to get the vaccine against measles, noting that the CDC continues to recommend getting the measles, mumps and rubella shot.

The United States' measles outbreak has surpassed 1,000 confirmed cases with three deaths so far. The surge comes as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. continues to undermine confidence in the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. A vaccine-skeptical Mennonite community straddling the Texas–New Mexico border has been hit particularly hard.

The number of measles cases in the United States has crossed 1,000 for the first time in five years, federal data showed on Friday, as the country battles one of its worst outbreaks of the childhood disease.