Measles prevention isn't guaranteed through Vitamin A supplements. Instead, here's the real scoop on its functions.

Measles prevention isn't guaranteed through Vitamin A supplements. Instead, here's the real scoop on its functions.

The United States is currently grappling with a significant outbreak of measles, with over 1,000 cases reported across 30 states as of May 15, 2025. Tragically, the disease has claimed the lives of three individuals.

The latest surge in measles cases has centered around western Texas and New Mexico, beyond which measles cases have also been documented in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel advisory for those visiting affected areas.

Historically, measles has been a well-regulated infectious disease, except for occasional outbreaks. The U.S. has experienced two major measles outbreaks in recent decades, including the Indiana outbreak in 2005, which were driven by undervaccination.

In light of recent comments from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, there has been increased interest in vitamin A supplements as a potential treatment or preventative measure for measles. However, three medical and public health experts interviewed by Medical News Today agreed that vitamin A does not provide any benefits in a preventative capacity but can exacerbate symptoms if a person already has measles due to the disease causing vitamin A deficiency.

Although the CDC does list vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, it still recommends vaccination as the primary line of defense against the disease. To better understand the role of vitamin A and other medications in treating and preventing measles, as well as measures people can take to protect themselves and their communities, Medical News Today spoke with three experts: infectious disease specialist Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH of the University of California, San Francisco, and pediatricians Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP and Danelle Fisher, MD, FAAP, both board certified at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA.

In regards to vitamin A supplements, the experts agreed that they are not beneficial for preventing measles. However, treatment with two oral doses of Vitamin A can be helpful in severe cases, especially for children under two years old. The World Health Organization recommends the use of vitamin A supplements in both adults and children with measles.

The experts also warned against the use of the steroid budesonide and the antibiotic clarithromycin for treating measles, stating that there is no evidence to support their use and their role in treating the disease remains unclear. The CDC emphasizes that the only effective prevention against measles is vaccination.

When using vitamin A supplements, it is important to be cautious of consuming excess amounts as Vitamin A toxicity can cause damage to the body, including liver damage. The recommended daily vitamin A intake varies by age, with babies and children needing less than adults, especially women. Only certain populations, such as preterm infants and those with diseases affecting dietary absorption, may require supplements.

Given the ongoing measles outbreak in the U.S., it is essential to stay up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly for young children and those in affected areas. For more information on measles, its treatment, and prevention measures, speak with a healthcare provider.

1. Despite the recent surge in measles cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still advocates for vaccination as the primary method of defense.
2. Beyond Texas and New Mexico, measles cases have also been reported in California, New York, and other states, prompting the CDC to issue a travel advisory.
3. Historically, measles has been under control, save for occasional outbreaks, but recent cases have underscored its potential threat.
4. The U.S. Health and Human Services secretary has highlighted the role of vitamin A supplements in fighting measles, generating considerable discussion.
5. Medical News Today interviewed three experts to better understand the role of vitamin A supplements and other treatments in managing measles.
6. Interestingly, while the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, the experts interviewed do not recommend it for preventative purposes.
7. In severe cases of measles, particularly for children under two years old, two doses of Vitamin A may prove helpful.
8. The World Health Organization supports the use of vitamin A supplements in both adults and children with measles, but excessive consumption can lead to toxicity.
9. Budesonide and clarithromycin should be avoided for treating measles, as their efficacy and role in the disease remain uncertain.
10. To protect oneself and the community, it is crucial to stay updated on vaccinations, especially for young children and those living in affected areas.
11. The ongoing measles outbreak underlines the importance of education around the disease, its treatment, and prevention measures.
12. In the realm of health and wellness, learning about measles can lead to better decision-making regarding personal health.
13. The current outbreak also emphasizes the importance of fitness and exercise in boosting the immune system to fight off diseases like measles.
14. Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and understanding the psychological impact of measles outbreaks can contribute to effective management strategies.
15. Education, self-development, career development, politics, and general news all play a role in fostering a well-informed society better equipped to handle health crises such as the current measles outbreak.

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