Doctors Sound Alarm on Vitamin A Overuse in Measles Cases 

United States: Medical experts warn that an increase in measles cases throughout the United States leads to a new health issue where unvaccinated children develop vitamin A toxicity after consuming excessive amounts of this vitamin. Dr. Lara Johnson from Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock Texas confirmed liver damage developed in unvaccinated patients who took high amounts of vitamin A, as reported by HealthDay. 

Misinformation Fuels Dangerous Practices 

Medical practitioners observe an increase in vitamin A consumption due to statements made by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about its effectiveness against measles. The medical community rejects completely the belief that vitamin A can function as a replacement for vaccination strategies. 

Dr. Peter Hotez who is an expert in infectious diseases warns that misunderstanding between vaccines and vitamin A as preventive measures may generate avoidable measles cases. The administration of vitamins at incorrect amounts produces severe health problems for patients. 

The Only Effective Prevention: MMR Vaccination 

Doctors emphasize that the Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine stands as the most effective method of measles prevention because it achieves successful results in 97% of individuals who receive two doses. Kennedy shows his endorsement for vaccines but presents vaccinations as something that people must choose freely which has led to increased parental vaccine reluctance. 

And of course this is happening in the context of spreading H5N1 and a measles outbreak that began in West Texas – new reports of 400 cases in Texas today – and is now in 4 states TX NM OK KS and no sign of slowing pic.twitter.com/PeFHpKiXlz

— Prof Peter Hotez MD PhD (@PeterHotez) March 28, 2025

The Dangers of Excessive Vitamin A 

Although vitamin A can be beneficial when administered properly by a doctor, excessive intake—especially without medical supervision—poses serious health risks. Since vitamin A is fat-soluble, the body stores excess amounts, leading to toxic effects such as: 

✅ Liver damage 

✅ Blurry vision 

✅ Bone problems 

✅ Dry skin 

✅ Birth defects in pregnant women 

Pediatrician Dr. Lesley Motheral notes that most Texas children receive adequate nutrition and do not need additional vitamin A supplementation. 

Experts Urge Caution Amid Misinformation 

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) suggests parents avoid giving children too much vitamin A since research confirms its uselessness against measles. 

Social media influencers spread false information that leads parents to use treatments like ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine, as well as high-dose vitamin A which experts warn has no proven effectiveness. 

Dr. Hotez warns, “It’s coming out of the health and wellness influencer industry that downplays the importance of vaccines and promotes spectacular but unproven cures.” 

Measles Cases Continue to Climb 

The measles outbreak has now affected at least 378 people across 17 states, including Texas, New Mexico, Vermont, New York, and Washington, as reported by HealthDay.