Measles prevention not guaranteed by Vitamin A. Experts clarify supplement's true functions.
Resurgence of Measles Cases in the US: What You Need to Know
The United States has been grappling with a significant increase in measles cases, affecting 30 states as of May 15, 2025, with over 1,000 confirmed cases and three reported deaths. The latest outbreak has been particularly concentrated in western Texas and New Mexico, with additional cases reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel advisory urging people to be vigilant, particularly when travelling to affected areas.
Measles, a highly contagious disease, has typically been under control, with only minor outbreaks occurring in recent decades. In the past, major measles outbreaks, such as the one that occurred in Indiana in 2005, were attributed to low vaccination rates.
In recent remarks, US Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., suggested that vitamin A supplements, such as those found in cod liver oil, steroid drugs like budesonide, and antibiotics like clarithromycin might help treat or prevent measles. However, the CDC advises that vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing measles, and it does not recommend vitamin A as a substitute for immunization.
While vitamin A helps support the immune system and can be found in foods like eggs, cheese, and orange and green vegetables, experts like Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, and Danelle Fisher, MD, FAAP, another board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center, concur that vitamin A does not protect against or prevent infectious diseases like measles. On the contrary, deficiencies in vitamin A can occur as a result of the measles virus and worsen symptoms of the disease.
The experts specifically noted that while vitamin A can aid in the treatment of measles when given as two oral doses to treat deficiencies, its role as a preventive measure is limited. Budesonide and clarithromycin are not recognized or recommended for treatment or prevention of measles, with little scientific evidence supporting their use.
To protect yourself and your community from measles, vaccination remains the most effective solution. Those living in or traveling to outbreak areas should ensure they and their children are up-to-date with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine. In the event an individual has not been vaccinated, they should consult their doctor for appropriate vaccination recommendations.
Regarding vitamin A and cod liver oil, the experts emphasize that high amounts of vitamin A can be toxic and cause damage to the body. As most people can meet their daily requirements from their diets, the need for supplements is limited to certain populations, such as premature infants and those with conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease that impair absorption.
While vitamin A plays a role in the treatment of measles complications, it is not a substitute for, nor does it prevent, vaccination. The best way to protect against measles is through vaccination unless otherwise recommended by a healthcare professional.
[1] Enrichment Data – Vitamin A, Budesonide, and Clarithromycin in Measles Treatment and Prevention- Vitamin A is recommended as an adjunct treatment for measles complications, particularly severe cases, but does not prevent measles or replace vaccination. (CDC, AAP)- Budesonide and clarithromycin have no scientific basis or recommendation for use in measles management. (CDC, studies)- High doses of vitamin A should be avoided due to toxicity risks, particularly in pregnant women. (CDC)
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against using vitamin A as a substitute for immunization to prevent measles.
- Monica Gandhi, Daniel Ganjian, and Danelle Fisher, experts in infectious diseases and pediatrics, concur that vitamin A does not protect against or prevent infectious diseases like measles.
- Budesonide and clarithromycin are not recognized or recommended for treatment or prevention of measles, with little scientific evidence supporting their use.
- While vitamin A can aid in the treatment of measles complications, its role as a preventive measure is limited.
- Enrichment Data – Pregnant women should avoid high doses of vitamin A due to potential toxicity risks.
- To protect yourself and your community from measles, vaccination remains the most effective solution, and those traveling to outbreak areas should ensure they and their children are up-to-date with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine.
