Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A; specialists clarify its actual functions.
The U.S. is currently grappling with a significant rise in measles cases, a contagious viral disease that has spread across 30 states, resulting in over 1,000 confirmed cases and three reported deaths as of May 15, 2025. The outbreak, primarily focused in western Texas and New Mexico, has also been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to caution travelers.
Measles, traditionally well-controlled, has been observed to surge in recent years, with the U.S. experiencing two major outbreaks in the last few decades. These incidents can be attributed to undervaccination as both outbreaks, including the one in 2005 in Indiana, were fueled by low vaccination rates.
Recently, comments made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, have raised questions about the use of vitamin A supplements in treating or preventing measles. Although the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, medical experts maintain that the primary preventive measure is through vaccination.
In an effort to address common queries regarding vitamin A supplements and the prevention of measles, Medical News Today consulted three medical and public health experts. According to infectious disease specialist Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, of the University of California, San Francisco, vitamin A has no preventive benefits but can help alleviate symptoms when used to treat vitamin A deficiency caused by measles. Similarly, pediatricians Daniele Fisher, MD, FAAP, and Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, of Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA support this stance.
While vitamin A boosts the immune system, it does not protect against infectious diseases like measles. Instead, when a person is affected by the measles virus, their body can develop a vitamin A deficiency. In such cases, the administration of two oral doses of Vitamin A can aid the recovery process.
Experts caution against touting the unproven benefits of medications like steroid budesonide and antibiotic clarithromycin for treating measles, as there is no substantial evidence supporting their routine use in measles management.
In terms of prevention, the CDC advises that people are contagious with measles from the onset of the measles rash, at which point individuals are encouraged to isolate themselves from others for four days. The sole effective means of protection against measles remains vaccination. Should you or your child not have been vaccinated, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider for appropriate measures.
Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin found in foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables, is typically consumed in sufficient quantities through a balanced diet. However, some populations, such as premature infants and those with conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease may require vitamin A supplements.
Consuming large amounts of vitamin A can be harmful, leading to health issues like skin and bone fragility, headache, liver damage, and other symptoms. The recommended daily intake of vitamin A varies by age, with adults, particularly women, advised to consume at least 700 to 900 micrograms daily.
In conclusion, vitamin A supplements do not prevent measles but can aid recovery when administered to address vitamin A deficiency caused by the disease. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against measles, and hiding from others while contagious is crucial to prevent its transmission. Speak with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule and to address any queries regarding vitamin A supplementation.
- Apart from vaccination, consuming foods rich in vitamin A, such as eggs, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables, can help maintain adequate vitamin A levels.
- The CDC does list vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, but medical experts emphasize that the primary preventive measure is vaccination.
- The FDA has not approved steroid budesonide or antibiotic clarithromycin for the treatment of measles, as there is no strong evidence supporting their regular use.
- Measles can lead to a deficiency of vitamin A in the body, necessitating the administration of two oral doses of Vitamin A during recovery.
- In some chronic medical conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease, individuals might need vitamin A supplements to meet their daily requirements.
- When selecting health-and-wellness products or supplements, it's essential to prioritize trusted sources and rely on advice from medical professionals.
- Not vaccinating can expose individuals to deadly diseases like measles, which is currently experiencing a resurgence across the U.S.
- In the realm of education-and-self-development, staying updated on the latest science regarding chronic diseases, cancer, and general issues such as mental health and nutrition is vital to making informed decisions about health and wellness, including the use of supplements like vitamin A.
