A growing measles outbreak that began in West Texas is now spreading across the country — with the CDC reporting 800 cases across 24 states, including New York. Nationwide, three people have died, including two children.

New York State Health Commissioner James McDonald joined “Mornings On 1” Thursday, stressing the importance of the MMR vaccine and calling out misinformation.

“What I'm concerned about a little bit is I think there's some mixed messaging coming out of Washington on this issue,” he said. “The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine has been around since 1971. There's not a lot new going on here, folks. There's not even moving parts. This is simple, straightforward. You get two shots before you go to kindergarten.”

McDonald, who is a physician, emphasized the safety and necessity of the vaccine, especially as the country deals with what he called a “loss of vaccine confidence.”

“Vaccines don't cause autism. What they cause is healthy children,” he said. “Our only incentive is to keep you healthy and well educated so you can live a long, happy, healthy life.”

Tap the video player above to watch the full interview.