Home
Blog

Vitamin A and Measles: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Portrait of Dr. Jonathan Johnson of Pinnacle Chiropractic — Pediatric and Prenatal Chiropractor in Lakewood Ranch, FL.
Dr. Jonathan Johnson
March 17, 2025
A mother comforting her child with a fever, illustrating immune support and natural health approaches.

The recent measles outbreak in Texas has many parents on high alert. As concerns grow, an important topic keeps coming up: the role of vitamin A in immune health and measles recovery.

If you’re a parent wondering:

  • Does vitamin A really help with measles?
  • Should I be giving it to my child?
  • What are the best sources of vitamin A?

You’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down so you can make the best decisions for your family.

What’s Happening with the Measles Outbreak in Texas?

Measles cases are on the rise, and Texas has reported multiple confirmed cases in recent months. Measles spreads through respiratory droplets and can linger in the air for up to two hours, making it one of the most contagious illnesses. Ninety percent of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles contract the virus, which is why immune system health is key.

Measles Symptoms

At first, measles can seem like any other virus, with symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes

Within a few days, the signature measles rash appears, starting at the hairline and moving down the body. Some children also develop white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots), a telltale measles sign.

While most children recover in seven to ten days, some cases become severe, leading to pneumonia, ear infections, or encephalitis (brain inflammation).

One major factor that can determine the severity of measles is vitamin A levels.

How Vitamin A Helps with Measles

Vitamin A is one of the most critical nutrients for immune function and skin health. Research shows it can:

  • Strengthen immune defenses, helping the body fight infections
  • Reduce lung inflammation and protect against pneumonia (a common measles complication)
  • Support skin healing, helping clear up the measles rash faster
  • Protect vision—children deficient in vitamin A are at higher risk of measles-related blindness

Why Is Vitamin A So Important?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vitamin A deficiency is a major risk factor for severe measles cases. In many countries, measles-related deaths have decreased significantly thanks to vitamin A supplementation.

Even in the United States, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends vitamin A for all children diagnosed with measles—especially if they require hospitalization.

Should You Give Your Child Vitamin A?

If your child contracts measles, both the WHO and AAP recommend high-dose vitamin A supplementation based on age:

  • Infants (6 to 11 months): 100,000 IU of vitamin A
  • Children (12 months and older): 200,000 IU of vitamin A (two doses, 24 hours apart)

This high-dose protocol is only for active measles infections and should not be used beyond two days. Taking high doses for extended periods can be harmful, so always consult a healthcare provider before giving high-dose vitamin A.

For daily immune support and prevention, ensuring your child gets enough vitamin A through food or supplements is a smart strategy.

Best Food Sources of Vitamin A

A nutrient-dense diet is one of the best ways to support your child’s immune system year-round. Some of the best food sources of vitamin A include:

  • Beef liver – The most concentrated source of vitamin A
  • Pasture-raised eggs – Great for overall immune health
  • Grass-fed butter and ghee – Simple ways to add vitamin A to meals
  • Wild-caught salmon – Provides vitamin A plus essential fatty acids
  • Carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin – Rich in beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A)
  • Dark leafy greens – Such as spinach and kale for plant-based vitamin A

Unfortunately, many children do not consume enough of these foods daily, which is where supplementation can help.

Where to Get a High-Quality Vitamin A Supplement

If your child isn’t getting enough vitamin A from food alone, a well-sourced supplement can help fill the gaps.

We recommend this trusted Vitamin A supplement from Designs for Health, which is:

  • Highly bioavailable and easy to take
  • Free from unnecessary additives
  • Backed by research and trusted by holistic health professionals

Click Here to Purchase a High-Quality Vitamin A Supplement

Final Thoughts: How to Protect Your Child from Measles

  • Vitamin A is essential for immune function and measles recovery.
  • If a child has measles, high-dose vitamin A supplementation (for two days) is recommended by the WHO and AAP.
  • A vitamin A-rich diet supports immune health all year long.
  • A high-quality vitamin A supplement is a great option if dietary intake is low.

With measles cases on the rise, now is the time to prioritize immune health and ensure your child is getting the nutrients they need.

Looking for a trusted vitamin A supplement? Get yours here:

Click Here to Buy Vitamin A

Stay informed, stay proactive, and keep your family thriving.

Looking for a Pediatric or Prenatal Chiropractor Near You?

Visit www.pdcnearme.com to find someone in your area?

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later.
Reviews

Patient Stories: Discover Reviews by Satisfied Chiropractic Patients

Hear what our patients have to say about their experience at Pinnacle.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about these people and this practice...highly recommend 👌
We've had the best experience with Pinnacle Chiropractic for my 4 month old son. Dr Jordan and Dr Kirsten are the BEST! Everyone in the office is so friendly and welcoming and it's just such a great atmosphere overall! The progress we've seen in my son's overall happiness and comfortability (even after just a few adjustments) is unbelievable! I cannot say enough wonderful things about these people and this practice... highly recommend 👌
They are a great group of people and treat the children with respect
My grandson has been being seen here for several months and we notice a marked improvement in his sleeping and ability to concentrate. The staff there is professional and manages the many kids coming in and out with ease and appointments are as scheduled and rescheduling is not a problem. They are a great group of people and treat the children with respect and always have something fun going on for them to look forward to.
Insights + Tips

Discover the Natural Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Learn about the benefits and get latest in chiropractic care.

Designs for Health Prenatal Pro vitamins for pregnant women

Best Prenatal Vitamins for MTHFR Mutation: What Every Mama Needs to Know

Discover the best prenatal vitamin for MTHFR mutation. Learn why Designs for Health Prenatal Pro™ is our top choice for bioavailable, safe prenatal nutrition.
Read Article
A pregnant mom receiving gentle Webster Technique chiropractic adjustment at Pinnacle Chiropractic in Sarasota/Bradenton.

Safe, Gentle, & Effective: Why Every Pregnant Mom Should Know About the Webster Technique

Discover why the Webster Technique is the safest chiropractic adjustment for pregnancy. Learn how it prepares your body for labor and supports your baby's optimal development.
Read Article
Mother holding her baby during a gentle chiropractic session.

How to Find an Infant Chiropractor Near You: A Parent’s Guide

Searching for a trusted infant chiropractor near you? Discover how to choose the best provider, what certifications to look for, and why families rely on PDCNearMe.com to find specialized care.
Read Article
A breastfeeding mother drinking an electrolyte drink to stay hydrated and support milk supply.

Best Electrolytes for Breastfeeding: A Mom-Approved Guide to Staying Hydrated and Energized

Discover the best electrolytes for breastfeeding moms to boost hydration, energy, and milk supply. Learn about mom-approved options like Redmond ReLyte and LMNT.
Read Article
Contact Us

Visit Our Office

Contact us for expert chiropractic care in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton, FL.

A woman holding a baby with a pink flower on her shirt.
A woman with long hair and a polka dot shirt.
A man is holding a young boy on his shoulders.
Google LogoFive Star Rating
130+Reviews

Address

Pinnacle Chiropractic
7984 Cooper Creek Blvd., Suite #104
University Park, FL 34201
Open in Google Maps