The Role of Vitamin A in Measles Treatment: What You Need to Know

Vitamin A, a vital fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision and immune system function, is often misunderstood in its role concerning measles. While it plays a therapeutic role when a patient already has measles, it is not a preventive measure against this infectious disease. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding the specific uses and limitations of Vitamin A, especially in relation to measles.

Vitamin A is abundantly found in everyday foods such as eggs, cheese, fish, milk, as well as orange and green vegetables. Its significance extends beyond vision, as it is actively involved in maintaining a healthy immune system. Despite these benefits, it is crucial to note that Vitamin A is not effective in preventing measles or other infectious diseases.

“Vitamin A is used when a patient 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,” said Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH.

In instances where someone contracts the measles virus, their body may experience Vitamin A deficiency. To combat this, the World Health Organization recommends two oral doses of Vitamin A for both adults and children suffering from measles. This treatment protocol is particularly emphasized for children under the age of two, who are at risk of severe outcomes if they suffer from Vitamin A deficiency while having measles.

“It is true that severe Vitamin A deficiency did lead to more severe outcomes with measles in the past. A Cochrane review showed that two doses of Vitamin A should be given to children (especially those under the age of 2 years old) with severe measles, and the World Health Organization recommends two doses of Vitamin A in adults and children with measles,” explained Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH.

For individuals consuming diets rich in Vitamin A, additional supplementation is unnecessary and can even be harmful. The fat-soluble nature of Vitamin A allows it to accumulate in the body, leading to potential toxicity if consumed in excessive amounts.

“Vitamin A by itself can also be harmful if too large of a dose is ingested. Toxicity can cause symptoms including nausea, diarrhea, rash, blurred vision, drowsiness, muscle weakness and other symptoms. People who eat diets with Vitamin A in them do not need regular Vitamin A supplementation,” noted Danelle Fisher, MD.

Preventing measles effectively requires vaccination rather than reliance on Vitamin A supplements. In regions experiencing measles outbreaks, such as West Texas and New Mexico, vaccination remains the primary defense strategy.

“The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated for measles, especially if you are in an area where the outbreak is occurring (West Texas, New Mexico). If you haven’t been vaccinated before, get your children vaccinated too, as children can experience very severe cases of measles,” advised Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH.