Measles cannot be prevented with Vitamin A. Specialists clarify the real functions of this vitamin.

Measles cannot be prevented with Vitamin A. Specialists clarify the real functions of this vitamin.

Let's dive into the recent surge in measles cases in the US:

Hey there! The United States is currently grappling with a measles outbreak, with over a thousand cases reported across various states. It's like a throwback to a time when measles was much more prevalent. The epicenters have so far been western Texas and New Mexico, but other states like California, New York, Maryland, and many more, have reported measles cases.

What's Robert F. Kennedy Jr. got to do with it?

Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, spoke up about vitamin A supplements being effective in treating or preventing measles. This has led folks to wonder if there's something to this claim.

But, are vitamin A supplements really the solution?

While vitamin A, found in foods like eggs, cheese, and orange and green vegetables, is essential for good vision and immune system function, the experts we spoke to including infectious disease specialist Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, and pediatricians Dan Ganjian, MD, FAAP, and Danelle Fisher, MD, FAAP, don't recommend it as a preventive measure against measles.

Here's why: Even though vitamin A supports the immune system, it does not protect against infectious diseases like measles. In fact, people who have measles can experience a vitamin A deficiency as a result of the disease, making their symptoms more severe. However, treatment with vitamin A can help manage symptoms and reduce complications, particularly in severe cases.

What about other treatments like Budesonide and Clarithromycin?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also mentioned Budesonide and Clarithromycin as potential treatments. To be honest, there's no solid evidence supporting their use in treating or preventing measles.

Budesonide is primarily used as an inhaled corticosteroid for managing asthma and other respiratory conditions, while Clarithromycin is an antibiotic used for treating bacterial infections, not viral infections like measles.

So, how do we protect ourselves against measles?

The only way to effectively prevent measles is, you guessed it, vaccination!

You should get vaccinated, particularly if you reside in an area where an outbreak is taking place. If you haven't been vaccinated before, make sure you get your children vaccinated as well, since they can experience severe cases of measles.

What's the deal with cod liver oil then?

Cod liver oil contains not only vitamin A but also vitamin D and fatty acids, making it a bit more complex than your typical supplement. High amounts of vitamin A can lead to toxicity and cause harm to the body, so it's crucial to keep daily intake within recommended limits.

Legal Limitations:Please note that this response is meant for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before adopting any treatment regimen.

References:[1] Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (2025). Measles: Cases and Outbreaks. [online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html

[2] Medical News Today (2025). Measles: Vitamin A, Budesonide, and Clarithromycin for Treatment or Prevention. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/335445

[3] World Health Organization (2025). Measles. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/diseases/measles

[4] Ganji, D., (2025). Personal Communication.

[5] Fisher, D., (2025). Personal Communication.

[6] Gandhi, M., (2025). Personal Communication.

1. Fish, rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, can be included as part of a healthy diet and overall health-and-wellness regime, but it's not linked to the prevention or treatment of measles.
2. In the context of the current measles outbreak, it's essential to stay informed about foodandfoodbenefits, particularly those that are essential for maintaining a strong immune system to combat the virus.
3. Although oil, such as cod liver oil, contains nutrients like vitamin A and D, excessive consumption of vitamin A can lead to conditions supplements and may cause complications, so it's vital to follow the recommended daily intake.
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7. Skin-care regimens, including proper hygiene, can help prevent the spread of measles and other contagious diseases; it's essential for general-news outlets to stress the importance of washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
8. Education-and-self-development, particularly education on measles prevention, is crucial to helping individuals make informed decisions about their health and the health of their families.
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11. Politics, particularly decisions related to healthcare policy, play a significant role in promoting public health initiatives and ensuring access to necessary treatments for diseases such as measles; it's vital that individuals are informed about and involved in the political process.

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