Measles not prevented by Vitamin A; Experts clarify its true functions in the body.
In the United States, measles cases have surged, with over a thousand confirmed cases across multiple states, according to recent data. As of May 15, 2025, the disease has resulted in three reported deaths. The recent outbreaks have primarily impacted western Texas and New Mexico, although alterations have also been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and several other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued traveler advisories due to this ongoing trend.
Measles, a typically well-controlled infectious disease, has seen a resurgence in the U.S. with occasional surges. In the last few decades, two major measles outbreaks occurred - notably, the Indiana outbreak in 2005, which was also driven by undervaccination.
Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, has suggested the use of vitamin A supplements, such as cod liver oil, steroid budesonide, and antibiotic clarithromycin, for the treatment and prevention of measles. However, it is essential to note that the CDC still advocates for vaccination as the most effective approach against the disease.
To shed light on the topic, Medical News Today spoke to three medical and public health experts - Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco; Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; and Danelle Fisher, MD, FAAP, another board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA.
Addressing Common Questions About Vitamin A and Measles
When queried about the potential use of vitamin A for preventing or treating measles, all three experts agreed that vitamin A was not effective as a preventive measure. However, during an acute measles infection, vitamin A supplementation may help address deficiencies arising from the disease itself, although it does not protect against infectious diseases like measles.
Regarding budesonide and clarithromycin, the experts expressed concern about promoting their unproven benefits for measles treatment. There is no scientific evidence corroborating the use of either budesonide or clarithromycin as a standard treatment for measles. Moreover, the CDC and WHO recommend vaccination as the most effective method for measles prevention.
Protecting Yourself from Measles
People are considered contagious during the measles rash appearance. The CDC recommends that infected individuals isolate themselves from others for four days to prevent further spread.
According to the experts consulted, the only reliable method for preventing measles is vaccination - particularly for individuals living in areas where the outbreak is ongoing, such as western Texas and New Mexico. If you have not been vaccinated, doctors advise consulting with them to determine the appropriate course of action for yourself and your children.
Cod Liver Oil: A Complex Nutritional Supplement
Gandhi explained that cod liver oil contains not just vitamin A but also vitamin D and fatty acids. However, consuming vitamin A in high amounts can lead to toxicity, as it remains in the body due to being a fat-soluble vitamin. The recommended daily vitamin A intake varies depending on age, with infants and young children requiring less compared to adults, who have higher recommended daily intakes.
It is crucial for people to stay informed about their vitamin A intake, ensuring they do not exceed the daily limit of approximately 3,000 mcg for adults and less for children. Pregnant women, premature infants, and individuals with diseases that could interfere with dietary absorption, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, may require vitamin A supplements.
- Despite recent suggestions, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still advocates for vaccination as the most effective approach to combat measles.
- Vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, does not offer protection against infectious diseases such as measles.
- However, during an acute measles infection, vitamin A supplementation may help address nutritional deficiencies caused by the disease.
- There is no scientific evidence supporting the use of budesonide or clarithromycin as standard treatments for measles.
- People are contagious during the measles rash appearance and should isolate themselves from others for four days to prevent further spread.
- In areas with measles outbreaks, such as western Texas and New Mexico, vaccination is the only reliable way to protect oneself and one's children from the disease.
- Cod liver oil, a complex nutritional supplement, contains not just vitamin A but also vitamin D and fatty acids.
- Excessive consumption of vitamin A, due to its fat-soluble nature, can lead to toxicity, which varies depending on age and individual health conditions.
- Pregnant women, premature infants, and people with chronic diseases like celiac disease or Crohn's disease may require vitamin A supplements.
- In the realm of health and wellness, it is essential to consider personal finance, lifestyle, mental health, and even investing and technology as integral components to overall well-being.
- The education and self-development sector play a vital role in equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health, including understanding the benefits and risks of supplements like cod liver oil.
