Measles is not prevented by Vitamin A. Medical professionals clarify the actual roles of this vitamin in human health.
Rising Measles Cases Spark Controversy Over Vitamin A Supplements
Measles cases have surged in the United States, with over 1,000 cases confirmed across multiple states as of May 15, 2025. Three states, Texas and New Mexico, have been particularly affected, though cases have also been reported in California, New York, and Maryland, among others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned travelers to take extra precautions.
Traditionally, measles has been a well-controlled infectious disease, with only occasional spikes. However, the current outbreak follows two major measles outbreaks in the last few decades - one in Indiana in 2005 - both of which were fueled by undervaccination.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, has suggested that vitamin A supplements, found in supplements such as cod liver oil and the steroid budesonide, could provide some benefit in treating or preventing measles. Although the CDC lists vitamin A as a potential treatment for measles, the agency still strongly advocates for vaccination as the most effective means of prevention.
Three medical and public health experts spoke with Medical News Today to address common questions about vitamin A supplements for measles and measures people can take to protect themselves and their community.
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision and immune system function. The vitamin can be found in various common foods, including eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables. Fisher, Ganjian, and Fisher, three experts consulted, all agreed that vitamin A offers no preventive benefits against measles but that the disease itself can cause vitamin A deficiency and exacerbate symptoms.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
After Kennedy Jr. praised the use of budesonide and clarithromycin for treating measles, some experts have expressed concerns about promoting unproven benefits of these medications for a viral infection. There is no evidence supporting the standard use of budesonide for measles treatment, and the debate continues over clarithromycin's role.
How to protect yourself against measles
Patients with measles should isolate themselves from others for four days to prevent transmission, as recommended by major guidelines. Vaccination remains the most effective measure to prevent measles infection, especially in areas where outbreaks are occurring.
Vitamin A and cod liver oil: What to know
Cod liver oil contains vitamins A, D, and essential fatty acids, making it a more complex supplement. While some people may require supplements to ensure they get their daily vitamin A dose, the recommended intake depends on age and overall health.
Excessive vitamin A consumption can cause damage to the body, including liver damage, skin irritation, and fragile bones, so it is essential to avoid taking too high a dose.
Current measles vaccine recommendations
Health authorities recommend that young children receive their first dose of the measles vaccine at 12-15 months of age followed by a second dose at ages 4-6. Older children, teens, and adults who have not been vaccinated should get one or two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, each at least 28 days apart.
People who have not been vaccinated, had only one dose, or are unsure about their vaccination status should consult their doctor.
- Measles cases have been reported in multiple states, with Texas and New Mexico being particularly affected, as well as California, New York, and Maryland.
- The role of vitamin A in vision and immune system function is well-known, found in various common foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables.
- Three experts, Fisher, Ganjian, and Fisher, agreed that while vitamin A cannot prevent or treat measles, the disease itself can lead to vitamin A deficiency and worsen symptoms.
- Budesonide and clarithromycin have been suggested for treating measles by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., but there is no evidence supporting their standard use for a viral infection.
- Patients with measles should isolate themselves for four days to prevent transmission, and vaccination is the most effective measure to prevent measles infection, especially in outbreak areas.
- Cod liver oil, a complex supplement containing vitamins A, D, and essential fatty acids, may require supplementation for some people to reach their daily vitamin A requirement.
- Health authorities recommend that young children receive their first measles vaccine at 12-15 months of age, followed by a second dose at ages 4-6. Older children, teens, and adults who have not been vaccinated should consult their doctor for vaccination recommendations.
