Measles cannot be prevented by Vitamin A. Specialists clarify the true functions of this nutrient.
Vitamin A and Measles: Demystifying the Misconceptions
Hey there! Let's tackle the recent surge in measles cases across the States and the curious chatter about vitamin A.
As of now, unfortunately, over a thousand cases have been reported in 30 states, with reported deaths in three. Western Texas and New Mexico have been hit the hardest, but outbreaks have also been spotted in California, New York, Maryland, and others.
The old friend, measles, has typically been under control. However, two large outbreaks in the past were a result of undervaccination, just like this current event.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, has raised some eyebrows with his claims that vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, and other medications like budesonide and clarithromycin have potential in treating measles.
Medical News Today caught up with three experts – Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist from the University of California, San Francisco, and two pediatricians, Daniel Ganjian and Danelle Fisher, both from Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA – to shed some light on the subject.
Can vitamin A treat or prevent measles?
Although vitamin A supports immune function, it doesn't have a part to play in preventing or treating measles. But fear not if you've already caught the virus, as treatment with two doses of vitamin A can aid in recovery, particularly in children.
"Vitamin A is crucial for vision and the functioning of the immune system, found in common foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables," explains Danelle Fisher.
While vitamin A supplementation can be supportive in children with severe measles cases, it isn't necessarily preventative. If you find yourself with measles, don't rely on vitamin A as a cure-all; the best bet is vaccination to protect yourself.
The truth about clarithromycin, budesonide, and vitamin A supplementation
The use of budesonide and clarithromycin for measles treatment has sparked concerns due to their unproven benefits. There is currently no evidence suggesting that either medication should be used routinely for measles management.
Ganijan, Danelle, and Fisher all agreed that antibiotics, including clarithromycin, should be reserved for confirmed bacterial infections and not for viral infections like measles.
Protecting yourself from measles
Patients with measles transmit the virus for four days, so it's essential to isolate from others during this time. Get vaccinated if you're in an area with an outbreak, and encourage your children to do the same.
"Vitamin A supplements are only beneficial if someone already has measles and are not a preventative measure," states Monica Gandhi.
Bottom line
Remember, the only effective method of preventing measles is through vaccination. While vitamin A can be helpful in managing the symptoms of measles, relying solely on it for protection won't cut it. Stick to a healthy, balanced diet, and if you require additional vitamins, consult a healthcare professional.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and stay healthy!
- Despite claims by some, vitamin A, found in supplements like cod liver oil, does not prevent or treat measles.
- Two doses of vitamin A can aid in recovery, particularly in children who have already caught measles.
- Danelle Fisher explains that vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune system functioning and is found in common foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, and orange and green vegetables.
- While vitamin A supplementation can be supportive in children with severe measles cases, it isn't necessarily preventative.
- There is currently no evidence suggesting that clarithromycin or budesonide should be used routinely for measles management.
- Budesonide and clarithromycin should be reserved for confirmed bacterial infections and not for viral infections like measles.
- Patients with measles should isolate themselves from others for four days to prevent the transmission of the virus.
- To protect oneself from measles outbreaks, it is essential to get vaccinated if living in an affected area and to encourage children to do the same.
- Monica Gandhi states that vitamin A supplements are only beneficial if someone already has measles and are not a preventative measure.
- To maintain overall health and wellness, it is recommended to follow a healthy and balanced diet and consult a healthcare professional if additional vitamins are needed.
- When it comes to politics, general news, crime and justice, accidents, sports, football, NFL, or American football, staying informed is crucial, but it's essential to separate relevant health advice from rumors or misconceptions.
