Measles prevention doesn't involve Vitamin A. Here's what the supplement actually contributes to.
In the United States, the number of measles cases has jumped significantly, surpassing 1,000 cases, with outbreaks occurring in 30 states. As of May 15, 2025, the disease has unfortunately claimed three lives, largely concentrated in western Texas and New Mexico, though other states including California, New York, and Maryland, have also reported cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has urged travelers to maintain a watchful eye due to the widespread nature of the outbreak.
The U.S. has historically kept measles under control, with only occasional surges. The country has faced two major measles outbreaks in recent decades, the most notable being the Indiana outbreak in 2005, which was fueled by under-vaccination.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has recently advocated for the use of vitamin A supplements, such as cod liver oil, and the steroid budesonide, as well as the antibiotic clarithromycin, in the treatment and prevention of measles. However, the CDC still advocates vaccination as the most effective measure against the disease.
To gain insights into the role of vitamin A and other measures that can help combat measles, Medical News Today reached out to three experts: Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist with the University of California, San Francisco, and pediatricians Daniel Ganjian and Danelle Fisher, both from Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California.
Addressing Common Questions
Contrary to some speculation, vitamin A is not an effective preventative measure for measles, despite its proven benefits for the immune system. Instead, measles itself can cause vitamin A deficiency, making symptoms more severe. Treatment with two oral doses of Vitamin A can be beneficial in such cases.
Budesonide and clarithromycin, however, do not have a well-established role in the treatment or prevention of measles. There is no evidence to back up their widespread use in measles management, and their application should not be considered standard practice.
Protecting Yourself and Your Community
According to the CDC, individuals with measles are contagious from when the rash appears and are advised to isolate themselves from others for four days. The CDC recommends that people who have been diagnosed with measles remain in isolation for four days before and four days after the onset of the rash to prevent transmission.
Fisher underscored that vaccination is the only effective way to protect against measles. For those in areas affected by the outbreak, Fisher advised getting vaccinated, especially if they have not been previously vaccinated. Even those who have had only one dose or are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider.
Nutritional Considerations
Gandhi explained that cod liver oil contains not just vitamin A but also vitamin D and fatty acids, making it a more complex supplement. While most people can meet their daily vitamin A requirements through their diet, certain populations, such as premature infants or those with conditions affecting dietary absorption, may require supplementation. It is essential to be mindful of vitamin A consumption, as consuming large amounts can be harmful and cause liver damage, among other complications.
Current Vaccine Recommendations
In light of the growing measles outbreak in the U.S., the CDC recommends that young children receive their first dose between 12 – 15 months, followed by another dose between 4 – 6 years. Older unvaccinated children, teens, and adults should receive one to two doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, with each dose administered at least 28 days apart. Those who have not been vaccinated or are unsure if they have been fully vaccinated are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider.
- In the United States, food and food benefits are essential components of everyday life, playing a significant role in health and wellness.
- Unfortunately, the recent surge in measles cases has overshadowed the importance of maintaining good overall health.
- Oil, such as cod liver oil, is a common dietary supplement found in food and drink, offering various nutritional benefits.
- Diseases like measles can affect mental health, causing anxiety and stress for both the affected individuals and their communities.
- Fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is often recommended for people dealing with chronic diseases and health conditions.
- Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is crucial for improving vision and skin health, as well as supporting the immune system.
- Science plays a pivotal role in understanding conditions and developing supplements that can aid in the treatment and prevention of diseases.
- Supplements, when used judiciously, can benefit those with specific medical conditions and provide essential nutrients missing from their diets.
- In the wake of the measles outbreak, science, along with personal finance and investing, has become an interwoven aspect of everyday life, as people seek solutions to protect themselves and their families.
- Cooking plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as it allows individuals to prepare nutrient-rich meals catered to their health needs.
- The outbreak has also impacted lifestyle choices, influencing decisions regarding food and drink, outdoor activities, and social interactions.
- The home-and-garden sector has seen a rise in demand for sanitizers and disinfectants, as people aim to minimize the risk of infection.
- Businesses focused on health-and-wellness products, including supplements, have experienced a boost in sales due to the outbreak.
- Personal-finance experts have emphasized the importance of budgeting and financial planning during times of crisis, such as a health emergency or economic downturn.
- Education-and-self-development resources have become indispensable in understanding the science behind the outbreak and learning about preventive measures.
- Personal-growth resources have gained traction, offering support for maintaining mental health and promoting resilience.
- Career-development opportunities within the healthcare sector have increased as the industry combats the outbreak.
- Current events, like the measles outbreak, are widely covered under general news, keeping the public informed and updated.
- Learning about the outbreak and understanding the role of science in managing contagious diseases has become a priority for many.
- The increase in measles cases has reignited the debates surrounding vaccination, with sports figures such as Tom Brady and Serena Williams advocating for vaccination.
- Sports, including football (NFL), basketball (NBA, NCAA Basketball), baseball (MLB), hockey (NHL), golf, and racing, have been temporarily affected by the outbreak, with some events postponed or canceled.
- Sports-betting platforms have also been affected, with the uncertainty surrounding event scheduling impacting betting markets.
- Weather, like rain and snow, can sometimes impact the spread of diseases, requiring weather-forecasting services to predict the severity of the outbreak.
- TV meteorologists are increasingly discussing the measles outbreak on the news, using their platform to raise awareness and educate the public.
- News outlets, such as CNN, ESPN, and Fox News, have been presenting analyses and updates on the measles outbreak and related topics.
- To counter misinformation, organizations like the CDC and WHO have been posting guides on social media, directing users to trustworthy resources.
- As the outbreak continues, technology, particularly smartphones and gadgets, is playing an essential role in supporting remote work, ongoing education, and mental-health support. Health-and-wellness apps have risen in popularity, providing access to personalized nutrition plans, stress-relief techniques, and exercise routines.
