Measles prevention doesn't rely on Vitamin A; experts clarify the role of this nutrient.
The United States is currently grappling with a significant measles outbreak, with over 1,000 cases reported across 30 states as of May 15, 2025, accompanied by three confirmed deaths. The outbreak has predominantly affected western Texas and New Mexico, while additional cases have been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel advisory, urging vigilance for travelers.
Measles, a typically well-controlled infectious disease, has experienced surges in the past, with two major outbreaks in the last few decades, such as the Indiana outbreak in 2005. These surges have primarily been attributed to undervaccination.
Recent comments from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, have prompted renewed interest in vitamin A supplements as a possible treatment or preventative measure for measles. He suggested that vitamin A, found in cod liver oil and other supplements, along with the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin, have shown "good results" in assisting with measles treatment.
Although the CDC acknowledges that vitamin A may have potential applications in the management of measles, it still advocates for vaccination as the most effective means of prevention.
Medical News Today spoke to three medical and public health experts to shed light on the role of vitamin A supplements in relation to measles and measures people can take to prevent the disease's spread.
In terms of vitamin A's potential to prevent or treat measles, all three experts concurred that it offers no such benefit as a preventive measure. However, they noted that the disease itself can cause vitamin A deficiency, exacerbating symptoms.
When it comes to the use of budesonide and clarithromycin, experts have raised concerns about promoting the unproven benefits of these medications for the treatment of this viral infection. There is no evidence to support the use of budesonide or other steroids as a standard treatment for measles, while antibiotics like clarithromycin should be reserved for treating confirmed bacterial infections, not viral infections like measles.
To protect oneself against measles, vaccination remains the most effective measure. Patients with measles should isolate themselves for four days from the onset of the rash to prevent transmission.
Regarding vitamin A and cod liver oil, it is worth noting that cod liver oil contains higher concentrations of vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids. Although most people can obtain their recommended daily intake of vitamin A through their diet, supplements may be necessary for certain populations. However, consuming vitamin A in excess can lead to toxicity, causing damage to the liver, bones, central nervous system, and skin.
In conclusion, vaccination remains the primary means of preventing measles. Budesonide and clarithromycin are not recommended for measles treatment or prevention based on current evidence, while vitamin A plays a role in managing severe cases but is not a substitute for vaccination.
- Despite renewed interest, vitamin A supplements, found in cod liver oil and other supplements, do not provide beneficial prevention or treatment against measles, according to medical and public health experts.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still advocates for vaccination as the most effective means of preventing measles, amidst a significant outbreak in the United States.
- In terms of nutrition, cod liver oil contains higher concentrations of vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, but consuming excess vitamin A can lead to toxicity, causing damage to various body systems.
- In the context of chronic diseases and health and wellness, the current measles outbreak in the United States has seen over 1,000 cases, with notable instances in western Texas, New Mexico, California, New York, Maryland, and other states.
- Apart from vitamin A, the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin are not recommended for treating or preventing measles, as there is no evidence supporting their use, the experts note.
- In light of the ongoing measles outbreak, mental health remains an essential aspect of health and wellness, as the stress and anxiety caused by the disease can have lasting impacts on individuals and their communities.
