Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A: Experts clarify its true functions
Hot takes on the measles outbreak and vitamin A supplements
The United States is dealing with a significant measles outbreak, impacting thirty states and, tragically, causing three confirmed deaths. The latest surge in cases appears to be centered around western Texas and New Mexico, but measles cases have been reported in several other states as well.
In the midst of this growing crisis, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has advocated for vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, as well as the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin, as potential treatments for measles. While the CDC still supports vaccination as the most effective means of preventing measles, some have expressed interest in exploring these alternative options.
To better understand the role of vitamin A, we turned to three medical and public health experts: Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist with 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.
Vitamin A: Prevention or treatment?
Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that helps with vision as well as the functioning of the immune system. It can be found in a wide range of common foods, including eggs, cheese, fish, milk, orange and green vegetables, and even cod liver oil.
While it's true that vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not provide protection against infectious diseases like measles. If someone has measles, their body might experience a vitamin A deficiency, and in that case, treatment with two oral doses of Vitamin A can be helpful, the experts explained. However, it's crucial to note that vitamin A is not an effective preventive measure against measles.
The questionable benefits of budesonide and clarithromycin
After Kennedy Jr.'s endorsement of budesonide and clarithromycin for measles treatment, many experts have voiced concern regarding promoting unproven benefits for these medications against a viral infection. There is no evidence to support the widespread use of these medications for measles, and their routine use should not be considered standard practice.
Although a recent retrospective cohort study found no evidence of harm from steroid use in measles, there's no clear indication for their regular use in measles management. Similarly, clarithromycin is not recommended for treating measles itself, as it's reserved for treating bacterial infections that may occur as a complication of the disease.
Protecting yourself against measles
The CDC states that people are considered contagious from the onset of the measles rash until they are no longer infectious, which is usually 4 days after the rash appears. Patients with measles should remain in isolation for this period to prevent transmission. The experts emphasized that the most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination, especially when outbreaks occur in areas such as West Texas and New Mexico.
While vitamin A may not be a preventive measure, it can be used in the treatment of measles to alleviate symptoms and complications. Cod liver oil, which contains vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, can be beneficial if taken carefully; however, it's crucial not to consume excessive amounts to avoid vitamin A toxicity.
If you're unsure about your vaccination status or need further information, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional.
- In the debate over the measles outbreak, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suggested vitamin A, found in foods like fish, eggs, and cod liver oil, as a potential treatment.
- While vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not protect against measles as a preventive measure, but it may be helpful in treating the symptoms of the disease.
- The use of steroids like budesonide and antibiotics like clarithromycin in the treatment of measles is questionable, as there is no evidence to support their widespread use in managing viral infections.
- Mental health, nutrition, food and food benefits, chronic diseases, cancer, health and wellness, and supplements like conditions supplements and retinol (found in cod liver oil) are all relevant to maintaining overall health, although their direct impact on measles remains unclear.
- Isolation is crucial for patients with measles to prevent transmission, as they are contagious from the onset of the rash until they are no longer infectious, usually four days after the rash appears.
- The CDC recommends vaccination as the most effective means of preventing measles, particularly during outbreaks in areas like western Texas and New Mexico.
- It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have questions about your vaccination status or need more information about managing the risk of chronic diseases, such as measles, through proper nutrition and mental health care.
