Measles cannot be prevented by Vitamin A. Experts clarify the true functions of this nutrient.
Rising Measles Cases in the U.S. Spur Interest in Vitamin A Supplements, but Experts Urge Vaccination Instead
A measles outbreak in the United States has seen over 1,000 cases across 30 states, with three confirmed deaths as of May 15, 2025. The primary epicenters of the outbreak have been western Texas and New Mexico, though incidents have also been reported in California, New York, Maryland, and other states. Travelers are advised to exercise caution by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The U.S. has historically maintained control over measles, but recent surges in cases have been linked to under-vaccination. Two major outbreaks occurred in the last few decades, with the Indiana outbreak of 2005 being one such event.
Recent remarks from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, have caused a resurgence in public inquiry concerning vitamin A supplements as a potential treatment or preventative measure for measles. In particular, the use of cod liver oil and the steroid budesonide have been recommended by Kennedy.
Although the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, they advocate for vaccination as the primary measure against infection. Medical News Today spoke with three experts, including an infectious disease specialist and two pediatricians, to shed light on the topic and offer suggestions for disease prevention.
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
According to the experts consulted, while vitamin A plays a role in improving immune system function, it does not provide any protection against infectious diseases like measles. Vitamin A deficiency can occur during measles, and treatment with two oral doses of the vitamin may be beneficial under specific circumstances. However, it is not advisable as a preventative measure.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
The use of budesonide and clarithromycin to treat measles has received mixed reactions from the medical community. There is no evidence to support routine use of budesonide or other steroids as a standard treatment for measles, and their use is not recommended at this time. Clarithromycin is an antibiotic reserved for treating confirmed bacterial infections, not viral infections such as measles.
How to protect yourself against measles?
Patients with measles should isolate themselves for four days to prevent transmission, according to guidelines from the CDC. The only effective prevention against measles is vaccination. Experts suggest that unvaccinated individuals, particularly those in areas currently experiencing outbreaks, should consult their healthcare provider about receiving the MMR vaccine.
"Vitamin A is used when a patient already has measles and is not a preventive measure," states Dr. Danelle Fisher. "Therefore, there is no indication in this era (where we get plenty of Vitamin A in the diet) to take Vitamin A to prevent measles."
Vitamin A and cod liver oil: What to know
Cod liver oil is a complex supplement, containing vitamin A, vitamin D, and various fatty acids. Though dietary intake of Vitamin A may be sufficient for most individuals, supplementation may be necessary for certain populations, such as infants and those with conditions affecting dietary absorption.
Consuming high amounts of vitamin A can lead to toxicity, which can result in various negative health effects, including liver damage. Exceeding daily limits for vitamin A should be avoided, according to the experts consulted.
In conclusion, current evidence does not support the use of vitamin A, budesonide, or clarithromycin as primary treatments or preventative measures for measles. The CDC maintains that vaccination is the most effective strategy to combat the disease.
- Despite the surge in interest following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s comments, experts advise avoiding vitamin A supplements like cod liver oil as a measure for preventing or treating measles.
- While vitamin A plays a role in improving the immune system, it does not offer protection against infectious diseases such as measles.
- Budesonide and clarithromycin have not shown evidence for routine use in treating measles, and their use is not recommended at this time.
- To prevent transmission of measles, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends isolating patients for four days.
- Vaccination is the only effective way to protect oneself against measles, and experts suggest unvaccinated individuals, particularly those in affected areas, consult their healthcare provider regarding the MMR vaccine.
- Dr. Danelle Fisher states that vitamin A, including that from cod liver oil, is not a preventive measure for measles and should not be taken for this purpose.
- Cod liver oil is a supplement containing not only vitamin A, but also vitamin D and various fatty acids.
- While dietary intake may be sufficient for most individuals, certain populations, such as infants and those with digestive conditions, may require vitamin A supplements.
- Exceeding daily limits for vitamin A can lead to dangerous levels of toxicity, which may cause liver damage and other health issues.
- In light of the recent measles outbreaks, financial support for education and awareness surrounding vaccination may play a crucial role in controlling and eradicating the disease.
- Addressing misconceptions about vaccination and its benefits should be part of a comprehensive health-and-wellness lifestyle approach, as well as being integrated into conversations on science, education, technology, finance, lifestyle, business, food-and-drink, sports, and mental-health.
