Measles prevention doesn't rely on Vitamin A. Instead, learn about its actual effects according to experts.
In the United States, a considerable surge in measles cases has been reported recently, with over a thousand instances documented across multiple states. With cases predominantly centered around western Texas and New Mexico, measles has also been on the rise in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. In response to this, many individuals have been considering vitamin A supplements as a possible preventative measure or treatment due to comments from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary.
However, we consulted three medical and public health professionals to help answer common questions about using vitamin A supplements for measles and measures people can take to avoid the disease's spread.
Our experts — Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist, Daniel Ganjian, a board-certified pediatrician, and Danelle Fisher, a board-certified pediatrician — noted that vitamin A provides no preventative benefits but can help moderate symptoms when someone already has measles due to vitamin A deficiency. Treatment involves two oral doses of Vitamin A for children, especially those under the age of 2 years old, and for adults and children with measles, as per the World Health Organization.
Concerning other suppositions, such as budesonide and clarithromycin, experts agree there is no concrete evidence backing the use of these interventions for measles prevention or treatment. The best defense against measles remains vaccination—particularly important in areas affected by the outbreak.
To clarify any doubts regarding vitamin A supplements, especially cod liver oil, and to manage toxicity concerns, here are the key points to consider:
- Cod liver oil: While it contains vitamin A and vitamin D, there is no existing clinical evidence advocating the use of cod liver oil for measles prevention or treatment.
- Vitamin A overload: Be aware that excess vitamin A consumption can harm the body, causing symptoms such as skin and bone fragility, headaches, and liver damage. To avoid this, keep daily intake within recommended levels, which vary by age (under 3,000 mcg for adults, less for children).
Following the CDC's recommendations, patients with measles should isolate for four days before to four days after the onset of the rash to prevent transmission. Vaccination, especially if you live in an infected area, or if you haven't been vaccinated before, remains the most reliable approach to protect oneself and the community against this viral disease.
- In the United States, there has been a significant increase in measles cases, with over a thousand instances reported across various states.
- Measles cases are particularly prevalent in western Texas, New Mexico, California, New York, and Maryland.
- Vitamin A supplements have been suggested as a potential preventative measure or treatment for measles, following comments from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- Three medical and public health professionals were consulted to provide insights into the use of vitamin A supplements for measles.
- Monica Gandhi, Daniel Ganjian, and Danelle Fisher noted that while vitamin A can help moderate symptoms in those with measles due to deficiency, it provides no preventative benefits.
- Treatment for measles involves two oral doses of Vitamin A, particularly for children under the age of 2 and adults with measles, according to the World Health Organization.
- Budesonide and clarithromycin are interventions that experts agree have no concrete evidence supporting their use for measles prevention or treatment.
- The most reliable means of protection against measles is vaccination, especially in areas affected by outbreaks.
- Cod liver oil, containing both vitamin A and vitamin D, is not clinically advocated for measles prevention or treatment due to the lack of evidence.
- Excessive consumption of vitamin A can lead to adverse health effects, such as skin and bone fragility, headaches, and liver damage.
- To avoid vitamin A overload, it's essential to maintain daily intake within recommended levels, which may vary for adults and children.
- To prevent the spread of measles, patients should isolate for four days before and four days after the onset of the rash, following the CDC's recommendations.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including fitness and exercise, skin care, and addressing mental and sexual health concerns, can support overall health and boost the immune system.
- In addition to addressing chronic diseases such as cancer, respiratory and digestive conditions, and neurological disorders, managing autoimmune disorders, skin conditions, and eye-hearing health can also help improve wellness.
- Pregnancy and parenting require special consideration, with emphasis on weight management, cardiovascular health, and women's health for expectant mothers, while ensuring emotional wellness for both parents and their children.
