CLEVELAND, Ohio — The measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico has resulted in a second death, leaving many Ohioans wondering if they and their families are protected against the dangerous virus and if — as federal health official Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stated — vitamin A prevents measles deaths.

Despite an unvaccinated child’s death, local residents in West Texas say personal choice—not public-health policy—should guide their decisions.

Close-knit religious community claims it is a scapegoat for wider issue of anti-vax sentiment in rural West Texas