It is the key to fighting measles.
The CDC recently addressed a major measles outbreak in western Texas, where 146 people have fallen ill, and one child has died. The CDC’s statement, released on social media, mentioned the use of vitamin A as part of supportive care for measles patients, which has drawn attention among medical professionals. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, vitamin A has been used in developing countries to reduce complications in severe cases, though it’s not considered a cure.
Vitamin A is less frequently used in the U.S. due to lower rates of vitamin A deficiency, as most people receive adequate amounts from their diet. Experts like Dr. Camille Sabella and Dr. Alexandra Yonts acknowledge that while vitamin A has proven benefits in resource-limited settings, its effectiveness in the U.S. remains uncertain. However, they agree that it can still be safely administered in proper doses under the right conditions, especially for hospitalized or severely ill patients.
There is concern, though, about potential misuse of vitamin A in the U.S. Some worry it could be promoted as an alternative to vaccination, similar to how certain treatments were misused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. David Higgins emphasized the need for clear messaging from the CDC, stating that vitamin A should never be seen as a substitute for the MMR vaccine, which is essential for measles prevention.
Another issue with vitamin A is its potential toxicity at high levels. As a fat-soluble vitamin, it can accumulate in the body, leading to harmful side effects, particularly if taken in excess over time. Health experts stress that vitamin A should be used only in specific cases for a short duration, as recommended by organizations like the WHO, CDC, and AAP, to prevent adverse outcomes.
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