A recent investigation has revealed a significant spike in internet searches related to “vitamin A” and measles, correlating with statements made by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during the measles outbreak in early 2025. The study, published on June 1 by the JAMA Network, noted that searches for “vitamin A” surged by 44% on February 26, 2025, and reached a peak of 100% on March 22, 2025. Similarly, inquiries regarding “cod liver oil” and measles hit their maximum level of 52.6% on March 5.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/child-with-measles-121225-8675af7fdb0740af83dcfd20fb870b8a.jpg)
The uptick in online searches appears linked to RFK Jr.’s controversial claims that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine could lead to encephalitis while simultaneously asserting that it effectively halts the disease’s spread. He advocated for vitamin A as a treatment during this period, suggesting it could mitigate severe disease and mortality associated with measles infections in the United States.
On March 2, 2025, Kennedy published an op-ed on Fox News in which he cited recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that encouraged the administration of vitamin A under medical supervision for patients with varying degrees of measles infection. He pointed to research indicating that vitamin A could significantly reduce the risk of death stemming from measles.
However, these assertions have raised concerns among health professionals, particularly in light of a press release issued by America’s Poison Centers (APC) on April 5, 2025. They warned of a notable increase in the use of alternative treatments for measles, including vitamin A and cod liver oil, amidst an alarming rise in reported cases of vitamin A poisoning among children. The APC reported an increase of 38.7% in pediatric vitamin A exposures in early 2025 compared to the same timeframe in 2024.
Despite the increase in reported exposures, the APC disclosed that there was no reported surge in the severity of these incidents, and no major health consequences were noted in 2025. They clarified that not all reported exposures indicated actual illness or toxicity; some cases may have arisen from the use of cosmetics containing vitamin A, such as retinol.
Health experts primarily stress that while vitamin A can play a role in treating measles cases, particularly in those at higher risk of deficiency, the most effective preventative measure remains vaccination with the MMR vaccine. According to Catherine Troisi, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the University of Texas Health, while vitamin A can alleviate some consequences of measles once a person is infected, it does not prevent infection in unvaccinated individuals.
The APC highlighted that vitamin A supplementation might be beneficial for hospitalised children with measles to help lower the risk of severe complications. They reiterated the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals prior to administering any vitamin A supplements or alternative treatments. Symptoms associated with vitamin A toxicity, which can ensue from excessive consumption, include nausea, headaches, and even liver damage.
As discussions surrounding the use of vitamin A as a treatment progress, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to focus on the scientifically backed methods for preventing measles. The MMR vaccine continues to be endorsed by the vast majority of health organisations, including the World Health Organization and the CDC, as the most effective strategy to protect children against measles, mumps, and rubella.
The rise in internet interest around vitamin A and its supposed benefits has highlighted the potential risks associated with misinformation and the promotion of alternative treatments in place of established vaccines. As the public engages in these discussions, it is essential to refer to validated medical advice and prioritise preventive measures to safeguard the health of children.