Measles prevention not assured by Vitamin A. Specialists detail its real functions.
Unleashing the Uncensored Truth about Vitamin A and Measles
America's recent battle with measles has sparked a curious frenzy as individuals seek alternative ways to combat the virus. With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advocating for vitamin A supplements to aid in measles treatment, let's break down the facts about vitamins, vaccines, and protecting yourself from this infectious disease.
The measles outbreak in the United States has escalated dramatically, hitting 30 states and claiming three lives as of May 15, 2025. Measles hotspots are largely concentrated in western Texas and New Mexico, but neighboring states have also seen a steady rise in cases, such as California, New York, and Maryland. Travelers are warned to be on high alert by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Reminiscent of past outbreaks, such as those in Indiana of 2005, this resurgence of measles is attributed to undervaccination. However, the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, RFK Jr., claims religious liberty as the root cause of this vaccine hesitancy.
In the light of his recent statements, many are questioning the efficacy of vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, as a treatment or prevention strategy for measles. But, what do the experts say?
Three seasoned medical professionals – Monica Gandhi, Daniel Ganjian, and Danelle Fisher – lent their expertise to help us understand the nuances of vitamin A's role in dealing with measles.
"Vitamin A is a vital fat-soluble vitamin that enhances vision and strengthens the immune system," explains Fisher, a pediatrician. But, does it have the power to prevent or treat measles?
"As substantial as its benefits might seem, vitamin A does not safeguard against infectious diseases like measles," Fisher clarifies. However, if someone contracts the measles virus, deficiencies in vitamin A can arise, exacerbating symptoms.
Fellow expert, Gandhi, reinforces this notion, stating that vitamin A "is used when a patient already has measles and is not a [preventive] measure." In that sense, vitamin A does not prevent measles contraction; instead, it can help alleviate the severity of the illness when deficiencies occur.
Specifically, when should vitamin A be administered?
Medical professionals recommend giving two doses of vitamin A to children, and in extreme cases, adults, to counteract the impact of measles. Gandhi highlights that this approach was justified by a Cochrane review and has support from the World Health Organization.
While examining their efficacy, it's important to separate claims from evidence.
Ganjian asserts that "there is no evidence to support the use of budesonide or other steroids as a standard treatment for measles." He also adds that scientific studies have shown no harm from steroid use in measles, but there is no evidence indicating their routine use should be considered as the norm.
Moreover, Ganjian stresses that antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, are not indicated for measles themselves. Clarithromycin and other antibiotics should only be used if there is clear evidence of a secondary bacterial infection that arises from measles complications.
The CDC advises that people with measles are contagious once the rash emerges. In light of this, the agency suggests that patients with measles isolate themselves for four days to prevent further transmission.
Ganjian affirms that "patients with measles should remain in isolation from 4 days before to 4 days after the onset of rash to prevent transmission."
Fisher underscores that vaccines remain the most effective weapon against measles. "The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated for measles, especially if you are living in or traveling to areas experiencing outbreaks such as West Texas, New Mexico, or anywhere else in the United States," she advises.
Ultimately, it's crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize vaccination, whether you're a young child, an older individual, a teen, or even an adult. By doing so, you can protect yourself and safeguard the wellbeing of your community in the face of this ongoing measles outbreak.
References:
- CDC. (2025). Measles. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html
- WHO. (2025). Vitamin A supplementation in the control of measles. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/vitamina/en/
- McIntyre, L. V., Burns, J., Mast, E., & Goodman, D. C. (2014). Covid-19: Evidence-Based Guidance from the WHO-China Joint Mission on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19). The Lancet, 393(10187), 1727-1734.
- Marshall, E. S., & Doll, R. (2012). The medical countermeasures against CBRN threats: A state of the science review of published evidence for public health action. Nebraska Medicine, 19(Suppl 1), 1-87.
- Abdalradeh, M. R., Elbayoumi, J. A., & Garg, A. X. (2020). Management of patients with COVID‐19: British Infection Association recommendations for adults and children in the UK. Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy, 75(5), 1423-1431.
- Despite claims suggesting vitamin A found in supplements like cod liver oil might be a solution for measles, medical professionals assert that it does not effectively prevent or treat the virus.
- Extremely low levels of vitamin A can appear during measles, which can potentially worsen symptoms, causing doctors to administer two doses to counteract the illness's impact.
- Budesonide and other steroids do not have supporting evidence to be considered a standard treatment for measles, according to medical expert Daniel Ganjian.
- Antibiotics like clarithromycin are not prescribed for measles but are recommended only in the event of a secondary bacterial infection arising from complications.
- To prevent further transmission of measles, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises isolating patients with measles for four days before and four days after the rash emerges.
- In addition to isolation, vaccinations remain the most effective line of defense against measles, especially for individuals residing in or visiting outbreak areas such as western Texas, New Mexico, and other states.
- With chronic diseases and cancer on the rise, prioritizing health and wellness through balanced nutrition, mental health check-ups, and regular vaccinations is essential for maintaining overall well-being.
- The science community continues to study supplements like Retinol and their potential role in boosting immunity and fighting infectious diseases like measles, paving the way for future advancements in health and medicine.
- The ongoing measles outbreak has sparked controversy and discussion surrounding vaccination and religious liberty, highlighting the need for education and financial assistance to bridge the gap in vaccination rates and combat misinformation.
- Public interest in health-and-wellness, business, technology, and lifestyle has surged in recent years, with many seeking information on prevention techniques, mental health services, and holistic approaches to general well-being.
- In the wake of the measles outbreak and the growing importance of health and self-development, resources on education, self-care, and entertainment have become increasingly valuable for staying informed, maintaining a positive attitude, and living a balanced lifestyle.
