Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A; experts detail its true functions.
A recent surge in measles cases across the United States has raised concerns, with over 1,000 cases reported in 30 states, and tragically, three confirmed deaths as of May 15, 2025. The outbreak, primarily concentrated in western Texas and New Mexico, has also been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has urged travelers to be vigilant.
Measles, once a well-controlled infectious disease, has experienced a resurgence in the U.S., with two major measles outbreaks in the last few decades – notably the Indiana outbreak in 2005, fueled by undervaccination.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has suggested that vitamin A supplements, such as cod liver oil, the steroid budesonide, and the antibiotic clarithromycin, can help treat or prevent measles. However, the CDC continues to advocate for vaccination as the most effective means of avoiding infection.
Three medical and public health experts spoke to Medical News Today about vitamin A supplementation for measles and measures to prevent its spread.
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, confirmed that vitamin A offers no preventive benefits but may help reduce the severity of symptoms in those already infected. Daniel Ganjian, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, concurred with her findings, adding that when someone contracts the measles virus, their body may experience a vitamin A deficiency. In such cases, treatment with two oral doses of vitamin A can help.
Experts find no evidence to support the use of budesonide or other steroids for the treatment of measles. Clarithromycin is only recommended for confirmed bacterial infections and not for viral infections like measles.
The best method for protecting oneself against measles is vaccination, a view shared by all three experts.
Vitamin A and cod liver oil: What to know
Cod liver oil contains high levels of vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids. While some may require supplements, most people in resource-rich countries like the United States consume their daily recommended intake through their diet.
It's essential to be cautious when consuming vitamin A supplements, as ingesting high amounts can lead to toxicity, potentially causing liver damage, skin issues, and other adverse effects.
Current measles vaccine recommendations
U.S. health authorities recommend young children receive their first MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine at ages 12-15 months, followed by a second dose at ages 4-6. Older children, teens, and adults who are not vaccinated should consult with their doctor to determine the appropriate dosage.
Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status or have not been vaccinated at all should consider speaking with their healthcare provider. Vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing measles infection.
- The surge in measles cases across the United States has raised concerns about chronic diseases, highlighting the importance of health-and-wellness practices and proper nutrition.
- Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist, confirmed that while vitamin A may not prevent measles, it could help reduce the severity of symptoms in those already infected.
- Daniel Ganjian, a pediatrician, concurred that in cases where someone contracts the measles virus, their body might experience a vitamin A deficiency, and treatment with two oral doses of vitamin A can help.
- However, the experts find no evidence to support the use of budesonide or other steroids for the treatment of measles, and clarithromycin is only recommended for confirmed bacterial infections and not for viral infections like measles.
- In light of the measles outbreak, science has emphasized vaccination as the most effective method for protecting oneself against measles, a view shared by all three experts.
- Several foodandfoodbenefits, such as cod liver oil, contain high levels of vitamin A, but it's essential to be cautious when consuming supplements, as high amounts can lead to toxicity and potential adverse effects on the liver and skin.
