As measles cases continue to be reported across the Unites States – including in nearby New Orleans – the spread of misinformation is leading to questions and even some fear. While most of the reported cases are primarily in unvaccinated children, adult cases have also been reported. Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases and can cause serious infections of the lungs and brain that can lead to cognitive issues, deafness, or death in severe cases. But, it’s preventable.
The measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine is recommended at age 12-15 months, followed by a second dose at 4-6 years old. It is 97% effective at preventing the development of the measles and reducing mortality rates. The vaccine can be administered at any age and has been proven safe and effective since 1963. It has also been a requirement to attend school in all 50 states since 1980.
MMR vaccination rates vary by state, but in general the rates for this specific vaccination continue to decline since the COVID pandemic. Vaccination rates for kindergarteners in the U.S. fell to just below 93% in 2023-2024 down from above 95% in 2019. Some who choose to delay or refuse childhood vaccines are relying on misinformation or opting for other means to help prevent the measles, like the use of vitamin A. Hospitals around the country are reporting an uptick in vitamin A toxicity cases and are urging the public to discontinue the use of vitamin A as it can cause serious adverse effects.
While it’s true that vitamin A can be used in the treatment of severe measles infections, it doesn’t prevent the development, spread or cure the measles. The only prevention for measles is vaccination. Vitamin A is used primarily in children for the treatment of measles to help prevent eye damage and blindness and to reduce the severity of the disease. Measles depletes the body’s vitamin A so adding it to the treatment plan can help restore vitamin A levels and strengthen the immune system. Vitamin A should only be administered under the guidance and supervision of a doctor, as it is toxic and can cause permanent damage or death if taken in high doses.
Symptoms of the measles can start with a cough, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, red and watery eyes, fever, and white spots in the mouth or on the tongue. These symptoms are common in other illnesses and can misdiagnosed. However, with measles, a reddish-brown rash develops a few days after the initial symptoms and can start on the face and spread down the body. Fever can also spike to dangerous high temperatures of 104 degrees. It’s important to see a physician immediately if your child isn’t vaccinated and these symptoms start to develop.