Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A; specialists clarify Vitamin A's true functions.
The United States is currently grappling with a substantial measles outbreak that has spread to 30 states. As of May 15, 2025, there have been over 1,000 confirmed cases, with three deaths reported. The majority of cases have been concentrated in western Texas and New Mexico, with additional cases reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel advisory cautioning travelers to be vigilant.
Measles, a once well-controlled infectious disease, has seen a resurgence in the U.S., with two major outbreaks in the last few decades linked to undervaccination. The latest cases have sparked discussions surrounding the use of vitamin A supplements for treatment or prevention of the disease. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, recently suggested the effectiveness of vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, as well as the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin for treating measles.
Although the CDC has listed vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, the agency maintains that vaccination is the best defense against the disease. Medical News Today consulted three experts to clarify the role of vitamin A supplements in preventing or treating measles and offer advice on measuring infection spread.
When questioned about the protective properties of vitamin A, the experts emphasized that while it supports the immune system, it does not prevent infectious diseases like measles. In individuals with measles, vitamin A supplementation can help alleviate the deficiency triggered by the disease and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Regarding the use of budesonide and clarithromycin, the experts expressed concerns over touting unproven benefits for the treatment of a viral infection. According to the specialists, while there is no clear evidence supporting the use of budesonide as a standard treatment for measles, there is limited data on the use of clarithromycin for secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or otitis media.
To minimize the risk of measles, the experts stressed the importance of vaccination. With three doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, the disease can be effectively prevented. Those who are not vaccinated, especially in high-risk areas, are encouraged to consult their doctors for vaccination as soon as possible.
Considering the role of vitamin A in the treatment of measles, it is essential to follow recommended dosages under medical supervision to avoid toxicity. Infants under 6 months require 50,000 IU of vitamin A per dose, administered twice, while infants between 6 and 11 months require 100,000 IU per dose, again administered twice. Children 12 months and older should receive 200,000 IU per dose, also given twice. These doses are specific to measles treatment and should only be taken under medical guidance after confirmation of the diagnosis. It is important to note that vitamin A supplements do not prevent measles.
In summary, while vitamin A supplements may help alleviate complications associated with measles in children, the best defense against the disease remains vaccination. Seek medical advice if you suspect measles symptoms or are unsure of your vaccination status.
- The measles outbreak in the United States has revived discussions about the use of vitamin A supplements for treatment or prevention of the disease.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has argued for the effectiveness of vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, in treating measles.
- Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, they maintain that vaccination is the best defense against the disease.
- Medical News Today consulted three experts to clarify the role of vitamin A supplements in preventing or treating measles.
- Experts emphasized that while vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not prevent infectious diseases like measles.
- Regarding the use of budesonide and clarithromycin for treating measles, experts expressed concerns over touting unproven benefits for a viral infection.
- To minimize the risk of measles, the experts stressed the importance of vaccination, especially in high-risk areas.
- Infants under 12 months require specific doses of vitamin A, administered under medical supervision, for treating measles, but it is important to note that vitamin A supplements do not prevent the disease.
