Measles isn't prevented by Vitamin A. Specialists clarify its true functions.
Spin Article:
Let's talk about the recent surge in measles cases across the United States and the potential role of vitamin A supplements in preventing or treating the disease.
The measles outbreak has been expanding to more than 30 states since its resurgence, with over 1,000 confirmed cases as of May 15, 2025, and unfortunately, three reported deaths. The hotspots of this outbreak have been in western Texas and New Mexico, with additional cases reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other locations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has urged travelers to maintain vigilance due to the spreading nature of the outbreak.
Measles is not a completely new threat, and the U.S. has previously experienced significant surges, such as the one in the early 2000s. Interestingly, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, has suggested exploring potential treatments like vitamin A supplements, such as cod liver oil, steroid medications like budesonide, and antibiotics like clarithromycin. Although the CDC does list vitamin A as a possible treatment option for measles, they still call vaccination the "most effective protection."
To further understand the implications of these suggestions, we spoke to three experts: Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco; Daniel Ganjian, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; and Danelle Fisher, another board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA.
So, can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
Vitamin A supports vision and the immune system, with sources including eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables. However, all three experts agreed that vitamin A does not serve as a preventative measure for measles, but rather helps manage the symptoms and reduce complications when someone is already infected.
Given that vitamin A can aid the immune system, it may prove helpful when the body has a vitamin A deficiency related to having the measles virus. In such cases, it is recommended for treatment with two oral doses of Vitamin A. Cod liver oil, filled with vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, could act as supportive care for children with severe measles, according to the experts.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
After Kennedy Jr.'s remarks about the benefits of these two medications, there has been much debate on their use for treating measles. Medical professionals have expressed concerns about promoting unproven advantages of these drugs for a viral infection.
While a recent study found no evidence of harm from steroid use in measles, there is no clear indication for regular use in management, and that should not be considered the standard of care. Nevertheless, there is limited data available on the role of budesonide in managing measles, with further investigation needed for clarification.
Clarithromycin, an antibiotic, is not recommended for direct treatment of measles and should only be used if there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, such as pneumonia or otitis media.
How can you protect yourself from measles?
The CDC states that people are contagious when the measles rash appears. To prevent measles transmission, individuals with the disease should self-isolate for four days before and four days after the onset of the rash following major guidelines.
Fisher emphasized that the only surefire approach to preventing measles is by getting vaccinated, especially in areas with outbreaks like west Texas and New Mexico. If you or your child have not been vaccinated, speak with your doctor to understand the necessary steps.
To clarify, vitamin A supplements do not function as a preventative measure against measles. In this era where a balanced diet provides plenty of Vitamin A, there is no need to take Vitamin A as a preventative measure, according to Gandhi. Instead, she advises people to prioritize vaccination for protection.
Vitamin A and cod liver oil: What’s the deal?
Cod liver oil includes vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, making it a more complex supplement. While most people consume these nutrients through their diet, certain populations like premature infants or those with underlying health issues, like celiac disease or Crohn's disease, may require supplements to meet their daily dosage.
With excessive vitamin A consumption, there's a risk of toxicity, leading to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, rash, blurred vision, muscle weakness, and even liver damage. It is crucial, therefore, to avoid exceeding the daily recommended limits for vitamin A consumption, depending on your age.
In conclusion, although vitamin A does not serve as a preventative measure against measles, it is important for reducing complications in those infected and can enhance vaccine effectiveness.
U.S. Measles Vaccine Recommendations
Due to the measles outbreak in the U.S., health authorities have released the following vaccination recommendations:
- Children should receive their first MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years old.
- Older children, teens, and adults who have not been vaccinated or only received one dose should get one or two MMR vaccine doses, each at least 28 days apart.
If you are unsure about your vaccination history, consult your doctor to discuss the necessary steps. Stay informed and remember to prioritize your health and the health of those around you!
- The recent surge in measles cases has prompted discussion about potential treatments, such as cod liver oil, which is rich in vitamin A and other nutrients.
- While vitamin A supports eye and immune health, it is not a preventative measure against measles but can aid in symptom management and complication reduction.
- Two oral doses of Vitamin A may be recommended for treatment in cases of measles with a related vitamin A deficiency.
- Cod liver oil could potentially offer supportive care for children with severe measles, according to experts.
- Budesonide, a steroid medication, is under investigation for its role in managing measles, but its use for this purpose is not yet standard of care.
- Clarithromycin, an antibiotic, is not recommended for direct treatment of measles unless there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection.
- To prevent measles transmission, individuals with the disease should self-isolate for four days before and four days after the onset of the rash.
- Fisher encourages vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles, especially in areas like western Texas and New Mexico experiencing outbreaks.
- Giving Vitamin A as a preventative measure is not necessary for most people, as a balanced diet can provide sufficient vitamin A.
- Monica Gandhi advises prioritizing vaccination over Vitamin A supplementation for protection against measles.
- Certain populations like premature infants or individuals with chronic diseases may require supplements, including cod liver oil, to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
- Excessive vitamin A consumption presents the risk of toxicity, causing symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and liver damage.
- In light of the measles outbreak, health authorities recommend MMR vaccinations for children and those who have not been vaccinated previously.
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