Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A; specialists clarify the true functions of this nutrient.
Updated Report: A Spike in Measles Cases Across the U.S. and the Role of Vitamin A in Prevention and Treatment
A rapidly escalating outbreak of measles has swept through multiple states in the U.S., leading to over a thousand confirmed cases and regrettable fatalities as of May 15, 2025. The spread of the disease has been mapped primarily in western Texas and New Mexico, but cases have also surfaced in California, New York, Maryland, and other locations. CDC cautionary advisories are in place for travelers, urging them to exercise diligence.
Although historically, measles has been managed effectively in the U.S., the current spike can be traced back to a few serious surges, including the outbreak in Indiana in 2005, driven primarily by undervaccination.
The recent discourse by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, regarding vitamin A supplements as potential aid in treating or preventing measles has sparked curiosity among the public. While the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, they continue to advocate for vaccination as the principal approach to eradicating the disease.
Medical News Today had the opportunity to consult three medical and public health experts, shedding light on common questions related to vitamin A supplements and measles, and preventative measures people can take to halt the contagion.
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
Vitamin A, an essential nutrient known for its contribution to vision and immune system function, does not provide any protective benefits against measles as a preventive measure. However, during the course of the disease, the body may experience vitamin A deficiency, exacerbating symptoms.
Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, explains, "While vitamin A aids the immune system, it does not safeguard against infectious diseases like measles. When someone is afflicted with the measles virus, the body may suffer from a vitamin A deficiency. In such instances, oral doses of vitamin A can prove helpful."
Gandhi further notes that vitamin A supplementation, particularly for children, is considered supportive care and has been proven effective in reducing severe outcomes in past epidemics. However, this is primarily true for cases involving severe deficiencies and should be administered under medical supervision.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
The efficacy of budesonide, a steroid, and clarithromycin, an antibiotic, in treating or preventing measles is a subject of ongoing debate. While Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has praised these medications for treating children with measles, many experts share concerns about endorsing unproven benefits for treating a viral infection with these agents.
Danielle Fisher, a board-certified pediatrician, notes that "there is no evidence to support the use of budesonide or other steroids as standard treatment for measles. Further research may be needed to clarify their role, if any, in measles management." Furthermore, Fisher stresses that antibiotics like clarithromycin should only be employed if there's clinical evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, such as pneumonia or otitis media.
In conclusion, while preventative measures and supportive treatment are crucial during measles outbreaks, vaccination remains the most effective means of thwarting the virus's spread. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for guidance, especially in light of ongoing measles outbreaks throughout the country.
- Although vitamin A is known for its immune system function and contribution to vision, it does not protect against measles as a preventative measure.
- In cases where someone is afflicted with measles, their body may suffer from a vitamin A deficiency, and oral doses of vitamin A can be helpful under medical supervision.
- Despite Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s praise for budesonide and clarithromycin in treating measles, these medications' effectiveness in treating or preventing measles is a subject of ongoing debate.
- There is no evidence to support the use of budesonide as a standard treatment for measles, and antibiotics like clarithromycin should only be used if there's clinical evidence of a secondary bacterial infection.
- Even though supplements like vitamin A and conditions supplements can play a role in managing chronic diseases and promoting health and wellness, vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing the spread of measles.
- In the context of ongoing measles outbreaks, it is advisable to seek medical advice about food and food benefits, nutrition, mental health, and other health-related concerns while being mindful of medical-conditions and chronic diseases that may require supplements or additional care.
