Measles prevention isn't guaranteed by Vitamin A. Experts clarify its true effects.
Measles cases are on the rise in the US, with over 1,000 cases reported across various states. Some folks are considering vitamin A supplements, like cod liver oil, as a treatment or preventative measure due to statements made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary. However, three medical and public health experts we spoke to revealed some surprising insights.
In light of this surge, you might wonder if vitamin A can prevent or treat measles. Here's what you need to know.
Vitamin A, an essential nutrient for vision and the immune system, is found in various common foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist, and two pediatricians, Daniel Ganjian and Danelle Fisher, emphasized that while vitamin A has a role in immune function, it doesn't protect against infectious diseases like measles.
In the context of measles, vitamin A's primary function is to help combat deficiencies caused by the disease itself. As Fisher pointed out, when someone has measles, their body can experience a deficiency of vitamin A. This is where two oral doses of vitamin A can potentially be beneficial in supporting patients with measles.
However, when it comes to using vitamin A as a preventative measure, all three experts agreed that it's not effective in that capacity. Fisher reiterated, "Vitamin A is used when a patient already has measles and is not a preventive measure."
Now, let's discuss budesonide and clarithromycin. After Kennedy Jr. promoted these two medications for measles treatment, many experts have expressed concern about their unproven benefits.
Ganijan explained that there's no evidence to support the use of budesonide as a standard treatment for measles. While a recent study didn't find evidence of harm from steroid use in measles, it's not recommended for routine use in measles management. Similarly, clarithromycin – an antibiotic – isn't recommended for treating measles itself due to it being a viral infection.
Now, if you want to protect yourself and your community from measles, the best defense is vaccination. As Fisher stated, "The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated, especially if you're in an area where the outbreak is occurring (e.g., Texas and New Mexico)."
Regarding vitamin A and cod liver oil, it's crucial to be aware that consuming vitamin A in excess can lead to toxicity. Gandhi cautioned, "Vitamin A is a 'fat-soluble' vitamin, which means it stays around in the body and can cause toxicity if consumed in too high amounts."
In resource-rich countries like the U.S., it's unlikely that you'll require vitamin A supplements, but certain populations such as premature infants or those with specific medical conditions may need them.
In conclusion, while vitamin A can support patients with measles, it's not a suitable preventative measure. The most effective way to safeguard against measles remains vaccination. To ensure you're up to date on your vaccinations or for more information, consult with your healthcare provider.
- While vitamin A has a role in immune function, it doesn't protect against infectious diseases like measles.
- In the context of measles, vitamin A's primary function is to help combat deficiencies caused by the disease itself.
- However, when it comes to using vitamin A as a preventative measure, all three experts agreed that it's not effective in that capacity.
- Ganijan explained that there's no evidence to support the use of budesonide as a standard treatment for measles.
- The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated, especially if you're in an area where the outbreak is occurring.
- Consuming vitamin A in excess can lead to toxicity, as it's a 'fat-soluble' vitamin that stays around in the body.
- To ensure you're up to date on your vaccinations or for more information, consult with your healthcare provider.
