Measles resistance cannot be guaranteed by Vitamin A. Experts reveal its actual functionalities.
Fresh Take:
The Alarming Measles Resurgence in the US and the Questionable Advice on Vitamin A
A recent surge in measles cases across the United States has caused quite a stir, with over 1,000 confirmed cases in multiple states as of May 15, 2025. The outbreak has primarily affected western Texas and New Mexico, with additional cases reported in California, New York, Maryland, and more.
Three infectious disease specialists and pediatricians from Medical News Today share their insights on the ongoing measles outbreak, focusing on vitamin A supplements as a potential treatment, and prevention methods.
The Rising Tide of Measles Cases in the US
The measles virus has recently gained renewed traction in the US, with several states reporting outbreaks. The most affected states include western Texas and New Mexico, but cases have also been reported across several other states such as California, New York, and Maryland, among others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned travelers to be cautious.
For context, there have been two major measles outbreaks in the US in the last few decades – the Indiana outbreak of 2005 and the recurring cases seen in suburban New York in recent years. Both events were driven primarily by undervaccination.
The Claims on Vitamin A and Its Lack of Effectiveness
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, recently suggested that vitamin A supplements, such as cod liver oil, alongside the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin, could help treat measles. While the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, medical experts are quick to caution against relying on these supplements as a sole means of protection against the virus.
Medical News Today interviewed three experts – Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco; Dr. Daniel Ganjian, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; and Dr. Danelle Fisher, also a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA – to shed light on the role of vitamin A in treating and preventing measles.
The Misleading Promise of Vitamin A Supplements
Although vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not offer any protective benefits against measles when taken as a preventative measure. During a measles infection, the body may experience a vitamin A deficiency due to the virus itself. Treatment with two oral doses of vitamin A, however, can help alleviate some symptoms in severe cases, particularly for children under the age of 2.
Nevertheless, experts advise against self-medicating with excessive amounts of vitamin A, as high levels can lead to toxicity, resulting in skin and bone damage, headaches, liver damage, and more.
The Importance of Vaccination in Preventing Measles
The vaccination remains the most effective way to protect both individuals and communities against measles. Those living or traveling in areas with outbreaks, particularly young children and unvaccinated individuals, should consult their healthcare providers to determine their vaccination status.
One common misconception is that vitamin A can serve as a preventative measure against measles in the US, where individuals have access to sufficient vitamin A through their diets. In reality, vitamin A has no role as a preventive measure in this context, and there is no indication for taking vitamin A to prevent measles.
According to the CDC, people are contagious with measles from the time the rash appears, meaning those diagnosed with the virus should be in isolation for four days to prevent further transmission.
Furthermore, the experts interviewed emphasized that proper vaccination, particularly the MMR vaccine, is crucial in preventing the spread of measles, providing long-lasting immunity against the virus. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are fully protected.
- Despite the ongoing measles outbreak in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against relying on vitamin A supplements, like cod liver oil, as a sole means of protection against the virus.
- Although vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not offer any protective benefits against measles when taken as a preventative measure, and excessive amounts can lead to toxicity, resulting in various health issues.
- Chronic diseases, respiratory conditions, mental health, and fitness and exercise are all aspects of health and wellness that can be affected by inadequate nutrition and personal-finance limitations.
- Proper nutrition, including food and food benefits, is essential to boosting the immune system and preventing the onset of chronic diseases, such as measles, as well as supporting overall health and wellness.
- Science continues to progress our understanding of chronic diseases and medical conditions, and one area of interest is the role of nutrition in managing and preventing various health problems, from measles to mental health disorders.
- As the economic landscape evolves, budgeting and managing personal-finance becomes increasingly important in maintaining quality nutrition, ensuring access to necessary supplements like condition supplements, and preventing conditions like measles that require medical attention.
- In light of the recent measles outbreak, it's crucial for individuals living or traveling in affected areas, particularly young children and those who are unvaccinated, to consult their healthcare providers to determine their vaccination status and remain protected from the virus.
- Vaccines, like the MMR vaccine, are crucial in preventing the spread of measles, providing long-lasting immunity and playing a vital role in overall community and public health.
