Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles? What You Need to Know

As of April 8, 2025, Texas has reported 505 measles cases, with most occurring in the Panhandle and South Plains regions. With numbers like these, it's no surprise that people are talking about ways to protect themselves and their families. One topic that keeps popping up? Vitamin A.

So can vitamin A help prevent measles? Let's break down what the experts and research really say.

The Role of Vitamin A in Measles

In the past measles outbreaks, health experts learned more about how vitamin A affects illness. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF said that vitamin A can help kids recover from measles. This is especially true of children who don't have enough vitamin A in their bodies. 

Health groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and WHO say a person is low in vitamin A if they have less than 10 micrograms per deciliter in their blood. Research done in places like Indonesia, Africa, and Asia between 1983 and 1992 found that giving vitamin A to vitamin-deficient kids with measles lowered the risk of dying by 30 to 50%. 

Is Vitamin A Deficiency a Problem in the U.S.? 

Thankfully, vitamin A deficiency is rare in the United States. Most people get enough from their everyday diets. Foods rich in vitamin A include:

• Leafy Greens (like Spinach and Kale)
• Orange veggies (such as carrots and sweet potatoes)
• Dairy products (like milk, eggs, and cheese)
• Meats and Fish

Most people in the U.S. get enough vitamin A from their food. But, doctors still give vitamin A to kids who have measles. This treatment should always be guided by a healthcare provider to make sure the right, safe amount is used. While vitamin A might help treat measles in some cases, research shows it does not prevent someone from getting measles in the first place. 

Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles?

Here's the bottom line: No, vitamin A doesn't prevent measles. During a 2019 measles outbreak turned to cod liver oil- a natural source of vitamin A- as an alternative. Despite their commitment to taking cod liver oil regularly, measles still spread in those areas. This shows that vitamin A is not a substitute for vaccination.

A Word of Caution: Too Much Vitamin A Can Be Harmful 

Vitamin A is a type of vitamin that your body stores in fat. Because it stays in your body, too much of it can build up over time. When a doctor tells you how much to take, it's usually safe.  But taking too much- especially for a few weeks- can be harmful. 

Signs of Vitamin A Overload in Adults

• Headaches 
• Mood swings or confusion
• Blurry vision 
• Dry or peeling skin

In Babies:

• Bulging soft spots on the head

In severe cases, liver damage and/or brain swelling can occur.

Final Thoughts

While vitamin A plays a supportive role in helping kids recover from measles, it is not a replacement for the measles vaccine. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is through vaccination. 

Have questions about vitamin A, the MMR vaccine, or measles prevention? Contact your local health provider or call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222- we're here to help, 24.7.