Measles isn't hindered by Vitamin A consumption. Specialists clarify the roles of this vitamin instead.
Measles Cases soaring in the USA: The Hype about Vitamin A Supplements
The United States is experiencing a significant uptick in measles cases, with over a thousand cases reported in multiple states. Measles, traditionally a well-controlled infectious disease, is making a comeback. People are increasingly seeking alternatives, like vitamin A supplements, due to recent comments by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The latest outbreaks have been centered in western Texas and New Mexico, with other cases reported in California, New York, Maryland, and elsewhere. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned travelers to exercise caution.
In recent years, two major measles outbreaks have occurred in the U.S., such as the Indiana outbreak of 2005, fueled predominantly by undervaccination. Vitamin A supplements, found in foods like eggs, cheese, and orange and green vegetables, has been suggested by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a potential treatment for measles.
However, the CDC still advocates that vaccination is the most effective measure against measles infection, labeling it "infection control." Medical News Today spoke to three experts – Monica Gandhi, Daniel Ganjian, and Danelle Fisher – to address common questions and uncover the truth about vitamin A supplements and measles prevention.
Can vitamin A prevent or treat measles?
Danelle Fisher, a board-certified pediatrician, explains that vitamin A mainly aids vision and the functioning of the immune system. While it supports the immune system, it doesn't help prevent infectious diseases like measles. However, when someone has measles, their body could experience vitamin A deficiency, and treatment with vitamin A supplements might help alleviate symptoms.
Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist, corroborates Fisher's statements, noting that the two doses of vitamin A can be beneficial for children, under the age of 2 years old, with severe measles. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends its use in severe cases.
What about budesonide and clarithromycin?
Owing to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s praise for the medications, budesonide, and clarithromycin, many experts have expressed concerns about touting their unproven benefits for the treatment of measles. Budesonide, mostly used for its anti-inflammatory properties in conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis, lacks evidence as a standard treatment for measles.
Clarithromycin, typically reserved for bacterial infections, is not recommended for the treatment of measles itself. Antibiotics like clarithromycin should only be used when there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, such as pneumonia or otitis media.
Protecting Yourself against Measles
To prevent the spread of measles, the CDC suggests that individuals with measles should isolate themselves for four days from the onset of the rash. Quarantine is typically recommended for four days before and after the onset of the rash.
Danelle Fisher reiterates that the only effective prevention against measles is vaccination. She advises vaccinating children, especially if they live in areas where the outbreak is occurring, such as western Texas or New Mexico.
"Vitamin A is used when someone already has measles and is not a preventive measure. 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,” says Monica Gandhi.
In summary, while vitamin A supplements are considered supportive care for children with measles, neither budesonide nor clarithromycin are recommended for treating measles, and vaccination remains the most effective method for preventing the disease. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for protecting yourself and your loved ones against measles.
- Measles cases are soaring in the USA, with over a thousand reported in multiple states, prompting concerns about infection control.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has mentioned vitamin A supplements as a potential treatment for measles, but Danelle Fisher states that while it supports the immune system, it doesn't prevent infectious diseases like measles.
- In severe cases of measles, two doses of vitamin A can be beneficial for children under age 2, as suggested by Monica Gandhi and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Budesonide, normally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, lacks evidence as a standard treatment for measles, and clarithromycin is not recommended for the treatment of measles itself.
- To prevent the spread of measles, individuals with measles should isolate themselves for four days from the onset of the rash, and vaccination is the only effective prevention against measles, especially for children in areas where outbreaks are occurring.
- While chronic diseases like cancer, mental health issues, and nutritional deficiencies all warrant attention in health-and-wellness discussions, they are not directly related to the recent surge in measles cases or the question of supplement use.
- In regards to scientific research and medical-conditions like measles, it's essential to rely on evidence-based information from reputable sources, such as the CDC and medical professionals, to make informed decisions about health-and-wellness, including the use of supplements like vitamin A, budesonide, and clarithromycin.
