Measles prevention is not guaranteed by Vitamin A. Experts clarify its actual functions.
The United States is grappling with a significant measles outbreak, with over 1,000 confirmed cases across 30 states as of May 15, 2025, resulting in three reported deaths. This surge has been mainly concentrated around western Texas and New Mexico, although cases have also been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has cautioned travelers to stay vigilant.
Measles, a previously well-controlled infectious disease, has experienced minor resurgences in the past. For instance, the U.S. outbreaks in the early 2000s, such as the Indiana outbreak of 2005, were fueled by undervaccination.
Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, has suggested that vitamin A supplements, like cod liver oil, along with the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin, may help treat measles. However, the CDC still advises vaccination as the most effective means of preventing the disease.
Three medical and public health experts spoke to Medical News Today to address common questions about the role of vitamin A supplements in measles, as well as measures people can take to protect themselves and their communities from the disease. Here are some key insights:
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
While vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that supports vision and the immune system, cannot prevent measles, the disease itself can cause vitamin A deficiency and exacerbate symptoms. Treatment with two oral doses of Vitamin A can be helpful in addressing a deficiency in people with measles, particularly children under the age of 2 years old.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
There is no evidence to support the use of budesonide or steroids as a standard treatment for measles. While a recent study found no evidence of harm from steroid use in measles, their routine use in measles management is not recommended. Instead, antibiotics like clarithromycin should only be used when there is clinical evidence of a secondary bacterial infection such as pneumonia or otitis media, and not as routine or prophylactic therapy.
How to protect yourself against measles
The CDC recommends that people who have developed a measles rash isolate themselves for four days to prevent transmission. The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination, especially if you are in an area where the outbreak is occurring. If you haven't been vaccinated before, it's crucial to get your children vaccinated as well.
The MMR vaccine, which provides immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella, is highly effective, with over 97% efficacy after two doses. The CDC recommends that young children receive their first dose at ages 12-15 months and the second at ages 4-6, while older children, teens, and adults who are not vaccinated should receive one or two doses, each at least 28 days apart. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, speak with your doctor.
Vitamin A, Cod Liver Oil, and safe consumption
Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids; however, consuming it in high amounts can lead to Vitamin A toxicity, which can cause skin and bone fragility, headaches, liver damage, among other symptoms. The recommended daily vitamin A intake varies based on age, and only certain populations, such as premature infants or individuals with celiac disease or Crohn's disease, may require supplements to ensure they get their daily dose.
In conclusion, while vitamin A can be helpful in treating measles when addressing deficiencies that may arise during infection, it does not prevent the disease. The MMR vaccine remains the most effective means of protecting against measles. To stay safe, ensure you and your children are up-to-date with vaccinations and follow the guidelines recommended by public health officials.
- In the midst of a measles outbreak in the United States, medical and public health experts have raised questions about the use of vitamin A supplements, like cod liver oil, for treatment.
- While vitamin A supports vision and the immune system, it cannot prevent measles, but treatment with two oral doses can be helpful in addressing deficiencies in individuals with the disease, particularly children under the age of 2 years old.
- There is no evidence to support the use of budesonide or steroids in measles treatment, and their routine use is not recommended. On the other hand, antibiotics like clarithromycin should be used only when there is a secondary bacterial infection.
- To protect oneself against measles, it is advisable to isolate for four days if a rash appears, and vaccination is the best preventative measure, especially in areas with outbreaks. The MMR vaccine, which provides immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella, is highly effective with over 97% efficacy after two doses.
- Consuming cod liver oil in high amounts can lead to Vitamin A toxicity, causing various health issues, so it's essential to be aware of age-based recommended daily intakes and use supplements cautiously.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, education-and-self-development, and personal-growth, staying informed about chronic diseases like measles is important to maintain one's mental-health and make informed decisions regarding nutrition and care.
- Skills-training in healthcare or public health can empower individuals to contribute to addressing public health crises like the current measles outbreak, and career-development opportunities in these fields are abundant.
- The surge in measles cases underscores the importance of science-based knowledge in maintaining a healthy population, and continued research may lead to more effective treatments and preventative measures for these and other infectious diseases.
