Vaccination is essential to prevent measles outbreaks

Measles is making a comeback in the United States after being declared eliminated in 2000. Though it was once thought to be gone, the disease can reappear when vaccination rates drop. More parents are worried now as cases increase. The mortality rate for measles is about 1 in 1,000, which is much higher than the risk of COVID-19 for children. Vaccination is the best way to protect children from measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is very effective and safe. However, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., head of the Department of Health and Human Services, suggested that vitamin A supplements could be as useful as vaccines. He pointed out studies showing that vitamin A can lower measles mortality. While it’s true that vitamin A helps immune function, relying on it instead of vaccines is misleading. Research shows that children who are deficient in vitamin A are at higher risk for infectious diseases, including measles. Giving vitamin A supplements can be beneficial for malnourished children in certain areas, especially where vitamin A deficiency is common. However, these issues are not present in the United States, where most children have sufficient vitamin A levels. Most vitamin A supplement studies were conducted in regions with high deficiency rates. In the U.S., the deficiency rates are less than 1 in 100, meaning vitamin A supplements are unlikely to help with measles prevention. Past studies have shown that while severely malnourished children benefit significantly from vitamin A, well-nourished children do not see the same results. In conclusion, for families in the U.S., the best way to protect against measles remains vaccination. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children are vaccinated and to maintain a good diet for overall health. There is no need to risk the return of a disease that was virtually eliminated for 25 years.