Unleashing the Truth: Measles Outbreak, Vitamins, and Prevention
Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A. Experts delve into the true impacts of this nutritional supplement.
In the midst of an escalating measles outbreak in the United States, reaching over 1,000 cases across multiple states, citizens are delving into alternative remedies for protection and treatment. One such approach, Propositioned by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., involves vitamin A supplements in the form of cod liver oil, steroid medications like budesonide, and the antibiotic clarithromycin. But, what's the real deal behind these strategies? Here's the skinny on measles, vitamins, and preventive measures, straight from the experts.
Texan and New Mexican Measles Meltdown
As of May 15, 2025, the CDC reports a significant surge in measles cases, with the majority of outbreaks occurring in western Texas and New Mexico. California, New York, Maryland, and more have also reported cases. Travelers have been urged to exercise caution, as the outbreak continues to expand.
The U.S has encountered two major measles outbreaks in the past few decades, stemming primarily from under-vaccination; the Indiana outbreak of 2005 serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences.
Vitamin A: The Immune System's Pal
The controversial proposal by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggests the utilization of vitamin A found in foods, like cod liver oil, to treat or prevent measles. To better understand its role, Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, an infectious disease specialist with the University of California, San Francisco, sheds light on its importance.
"Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin, has a crucial impact on vision and the functioning of the immune system. It is found in foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, orange and green vegetables."
All three experts concurred that vitamin A acts as supportive care and provides no protective benefits against measles. However, the disease itself may cause a vitamin A deficiency, exacerbating symptoms.
Budesonide and Clarithromycin: Empty Hype or Game-changer?
After Kennedy Jr.'s endorsement, concerns about championing the unproven benefits of budesonide and clarithromycin for measles treatment have emerged among healthcare professionals.
Ganjian warns against advocating budesonide as a standard treatment for measles. "There is no evidence of its effectiveness in treating measles. Although a recent study found no evident harm stemming from steroid use, its routine use in measles management is not recommended."
On the topic of clarithromycin, Ganijan reiterates that its sole purpose is to tackle confirmed bacterial infections, not the viral infection of measles.
Protecting Yourself Against Measles
Worried about catching measles? The most effective safeguard against the contagious disease remains vaccination, and health experts strongly recommend it, especially if you reside in areas experiencing a measles outbreak.
"Vitamin A is used in cases of existing measles and is not a preventive measure, so there is no reason to take Vitamin A to prevent measles," urges Gandhi. "Make sure your family is vaccinated, particularly young children."
If you're unsure about your vaccination status or need additional information, consult with a medical professional.
Vitamin A, Cod Liver Oil, and You
Cod liver oil, rich in vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, remains a popular supplement. However, experts advise caution when consuming large amounts due to the risk of vitamin A toxicity and potential side effects like skin and bone fragility, liver damage, and more.
Diagnosing and treating potential vitamin A toxicity is crucial, so please consult a medical professional if you have any concerns.
Stay Ahead of the Curve: Vaccines Are the Future
According to the CDC, the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine remains the most powerful weapon against measles. It's advised that young children receive the first dose at ages 12-15 months and the second at ages 4-6. Older children, teens, and adults who have not been vaccinated should receive one to two doses of the MMR vaccine, each at least 28 days apart.
If you have not received the MMR vaccine, have only had one dose, or are unaware of your vaccination status, speak with a doctor to address any concerns and adjust your vaccination plan accordingly to keep yourself and your family protected.
- The current measles outbreak in the U.S has surpassed 1,000 cases, with the majority found in western Texas and New Mexico.
- California, New York, Maryland, and other states have also reported measles cases, leading to travel advisories.
- Two major measles outbreaks have occurred in the past few decades, primarily due to under-vaccination.
- Vitamin A, a crucial vitamin found in foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, orange, and green vegetables, plays a significant role in vision and immune system function.
- Vitamin A, though supportive in care for measles patients, offers no protective benefits against the disease.
- Controversy over the use of steroid medications like budesonide and antibiotic clarithromycin for measles treatment has risen due to unproven claims.
- Budesonide has no proven effectiveness in treating measles, but its use may not cause harm.
- Clarithromycin should only be used to treat confirmed bacterial infections, not the viral infection of measles.
- The most effective means of preventing measles is through vaccination, which experts strongly recommend, particularly for young children.
- If unsure about vaccination status, consult a medical professional for guidance.
- Cod liver oil, rich in vitamin A, vitamin D, and fatty acids, may cause side effects like toxicity, skin and bone fragility, liver damage, and more when consumed in large amounts.
- The MMR vaccine remains the best defense against measles, with children receiving the first dose between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years. Older unvaccinated individuals should consult a doctor for vaccination advice.
