The Role of Vitamin A in Measles Management

Research suggests vitamin A can help reduce complications in those already infected.

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A school-aged child in Texas recently became the first fatality in a rapidly spreading measles outbreak that has already sickened more than 120 people across the state’s Panhandle region.

As health officials race to contain the outbreak, doctors are highlighting a dual approach: vaccination to prevent infection and, for those already infected, vitamin A supplementation to potentially reduce the severity of complications.

Vitamin A Recommended for Measles Management

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus spread through droplets, causing severe illness and complications, especially in children, with a 90 percent infection rate for those close to an infected person.