We conducted a study to evaluate if vitamin A could improve outcomes for children hospitalized with measles in a high-income country. We followed 108 children at a hospital in Southern Italy, comparing those who received vitamin A to a control group. Unfortunately, we found no meaningful differences in fever duration, hospitalization length, or complication rates between the two groups. Ultimately, our results suggest that vitamin A supplementation does not alter the course of measles in these cases.
Read More
9.5
Measles vaccination campaign successes
Nepal measles outbreak response immunization during COVID-19: A risk-based intervention strategy.
We explored how Nepal tackled a measles outbreak amidst the COVID-19 crisis by implementing a targeted vaccination campaign. From over 220 confirmed measles cases, a robust outbreak response was needed. The National Immunization Program coordinated measles immunization and provided vitamin A to affected populations, achieving a remarkable 97% vaccination coverage.
After the campaign, measles incidence plummeted by 98%. This response highlighted the critical role of careful planning, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration with international partners, which allowed for successful vaccination without jeopardizing ongoing health initiatives.
Read More
8
No significant benefit for measles
Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children from six months to five years of age.
We assessed the effects of vitamin A supplementation on reducing illness and death in children aged six months to five years. Analyzing data from 47 studies involving over 1.2 million children, we found that while vitamin A significantly reduced overall mortality and incidents of diarrhoea, it did not show a notable impact on measles mortality.
There was a moderate reduction in measles incidence, but we need to note that the evidence regarding death from measles was inconclusive. Overall, vitamin A supplementation remains a valuable tool for improving child health, but its effect specifically on measles is unclear.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Facilitates measles recovery
1 people found this helpful
Helps with measles! I ordered this after receiving recommendations for nursing during measles. In the initial two days of illness, children under seven should receive 40,000 IU, while those over need 60,000 IU, followed by a daily dose of 25,000 IU. The retinol form is the most easily absorbed and effective!
Read More
9
Huge benefit for measles
An excellent large dosage advisable for those suffering from measles, delivering a significant benefit. A standard-sized tablet.
Read More
9
Helped a lot during measles
I purchased this when my children had measles; vitamin A is crucial during measles, and it was tremendously helpful.
We explored how Nepal tackled a measles outbreak amidst the COVID-19 crisis by implementing a targeted vaccination campaign. From over 220 confirmed measles cases, a robust outbreak response was needed. The National Immunization Program coordinated measles immunization and provided vitamin A to affected populations, achieving a remarkable 97% vaccination coverage.
After the campaign, measles incidence plummeted by 98%. This response highlighted the critical role of careful planning, data-driven decision-making, and collaboration with international partners, which allowed for successful vaccination without jeopardizing ongoing health initiatives.
Read More
8
No significant benefit for measles
Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children from six months to five years of age.
We assessed the effects of vitamin A supplementation on reducing illness and death in children aged six months to five years. Analyzing data from 47 studies involving over 1.2 million children, we found that while vitamin A significantly reduced overall mortality and incidents of diarrhoea, it did not show a notable impact on measles mortality.
There was a moderate reduction in measles incidence, but we need to note that the evidence regarding death from measles was inconclusive. Overall, vitamin A supplementation remains a valuable tool for improving child health, but its effect specifically on measles is unclear.
Read More
7
Vitamin A supplementation cost-effectiveness questioned
Cost-effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation among children in three sub-Saharan African countries: An individual-based simulation model using estimates from Global Burden of Disease 2019.
We explored the effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) in reducing measles-related mortality among children in Nigeria, Kenya, and Burkina Faso. Using a detailed simulation model, we calculated the costs and health benefits of increasing VAS coverage from 2019 to 2023.
While our results showed some reduction in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), the cost-effectiveness ratios ranged widely—ranging from $220 to $860 per DALY averted. Ultimately, it appears VAS may not be as cost-effective as previously thought, prompting experts to recommend alternative interventions like improved food fortification and vaccination coverage.
Read More
0
Vitamin A ineffective in measles treatment
Vitamin A in Children Hospitalized for Measles in a High-income Country.
We conducted a study to evaluate if vitamin A could improve outcomes for children hospitalized with measles in a high-income country. We followed 108 children at a hospital in Southern Italy, comparing those who received vitamin A to a control group. Unfortunately, we found no meaningful differences in fever duration, hospitalization length, or complication rates between the two groups. Ultimately, our results suggest that vitamin A supplementation does not alter the course of measles in these cases.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 19 Reviews
8.2
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Facilitates measles recovery
1 people found this helpful
Helps with measles! I ordered this after receiving recommendations for nursing during measles. In the initial two days of illness, children under seven should receive 40,000 IU, while those over need 60,000 IU, followed by a daily dose of 25,000 IU. The retinol form is the most easily absorbed and effective!
Read More
9
Huge benefit for measles
An excellent large dosage advisable for those suffering from measles, delivering a significant benefit. A standard-sized tablet.
Read More
9
Helped a lot during measles
I purchased this when my children had measles; vitamin A is crucial during measles, and it was tremendously helpful.
Read More
9
Recovered faster from measles
During the measles outbreak, doctors prescribed large doses of vitamin A, helping people recover faster and with more ease. A reliable manufacturer.
Read More
9
Essential for measles
Vitamin A is essential for measles! I recommend that all children suffering from measles receive two doses of vitamin A, specifically 100,000 units.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children but can occur in individuals of any age who are not immune. The disease is caused by the measles virus, which spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Initial symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. One of the hallmark signs of measles is the distinctive rash that usually develops a few days after the onset of fever, starting at the head and spreading downward across the body.
Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing measles, with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) being the most effective means of protection. Immunization not only safeguards individuals but also helps stop the spread of the virus within communities. Although measles is often regarded as a childhood illness, it can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis, especially in unvaccinated populations. Public health initiatives continue to highlight the importance of vaccination to maintain herd immunity and prevent outbreaks.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that's essential for several critical bodily functions, including vision, immune response, and cell differentiation. It comes in two primary forms: preformed vitamin A (retinol) found in animal products like liver, fish, and dairy, and provitamin A carotenoids, primarily found in colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. The body can convert carotenoids into retinol, making these plant sources a valuable dietary option, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
Aside from its role in maintaining healthy vision—particularly in low-light conditions—vitamin A plays a significant role in skin health and the functioning of the heart, lungs, and kidneys. It also supports the immune system by promoting the development and function of white blood cells. While it's uncommon to experience a deficiency in countries where a balanced diet is accessible, a lack of vitamin A can lead to serious health problems, including night blindness and increased susceptibility to infections. In contrast, excessive intake of vitamin A, particularly through supplements, can be toxic and lead to several health issues, making it crucial to maintain a balanced intake.
Vitamin A has been shown to play a significant role in supporting the immune system and can be especially beneficial for individuals suffering from measles. Research indicates that vitamin A supplementation can reduce the severity of measles symptoms and lower the risk of complications in children, particularly in areas where the disease is prevalent. The World Health Organization recommends administering vitamin A to children diagnosed with measles to help improve overall recovery and decrease the risk of severe outcomes, including pneumonia and encephalitis.
It is important to highlight, however, that while vitamin A is a supportive treatment, it is not a cure for measles. Vaccination remains the most effective prevention strategy against measles, and timely administration of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is crucial to protect against this highly contagious disease. If you suspect measles or related complications, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance and treatment.
Based on user reviews, it appears that individuals taking vitamin A for measles often report benefits within the initial few days of illness. Many users emphasize the importance of starting the supplement early, with recommendations for high doses of vitamin A at the onset of symptoms to maximize effectiveness. For instance, one review states, "The earlier you start, the better" Read Review. Another commenter also notes that large doses can lead to faster recovery and ease during the illness Read Review.
The use of Vitamin A supplementation as a support for measles has some associations in research, but the evidence is mixed and raises questions about its efficacy specifically for measles outcomes. For instance, a comprehensive review indicated that while Vitamin A supplementation significantly reduced overall mortality in children and had a moderate effect on measles incidence, it did not exhibit a clear impact on measles-related mortality [3]. This suggests that while Vitamin A can improve general child health, its role in directly combating measles is less certain.
Additionally, another study focused on the cost-effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation in reducing measles-related deaths found that it may not be the most effective or economical intervention compared to other measures like enhanced vaccination coverage [1]. Furthermore, within high-income contexts, research showed no substantial benefits of Vitamin A in changing outcomes for hospitalized children with measles, indicating a lack of impact on the disease itself [4]. Overall, while Vitamin A has benefits for child health, its specific contributions to fighting measles may not be as significant or clear-cut as once thought.
Reviews indicate that many users have experienced significant improvements in symptoms associated with measles when using vitamin A, particularly when administered in high doses at the onset of illness. Several parents noted that the vitamin helped their children endure the measles illness more comfortably, with one user highlighting that her children "experienced the illness quite easily" after supplementation Read Review. Another reviewer emphasized the importance of starting treatment early, quoting, "The earlier you start, the better" Read Review.
Users consistently reported that vitamin A not only aids in recovery but also helps in boosting the immune system, which is crucial during such viral infections. Some noted that large doses were effective in reducing the severity of symptoms and enhancing overall treatment outcomes, with one parent mentioning that "large doses are beneficial for protection" Read Review. Individual results can vary, but the consensus among users is that vitamin A is a valuable tool in managing measles symptoms, facilitating a milder course of the illness, and providing necessary nutrients to combat the virus effectively.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report positive experiences when combining vitamin A with other supplements to manage measles symptoms. One user specifically noted that pairing vitamin A with vitamins E, D3, and Omega-3 resulted in a "quicker complex effect" during illness, demonstrating the potential benefits of a multi-supplement approach Read Review. This suggests that while vitamin A is crucial on its own—often prescribed in large doses during measles outbreaks—supplementing with additional nutrients may provide enhanced support for the immune system and overall health.
Furthermore, reviews indicate a consensus on the importance of large dosage recommendations, with some users emphasizing the need for high doses of vitamin A to ensure effective treatment Read Review. Users generally highlighted that vitamin A plays a key role in mitigating symptoms and preventing complications when used alongside a comprehensive supplement regimen. This combination likely aids in fortifying the body against the illness, as many indicated that proper supplementation was vital for comfort and recovery during measles Read Review.
Users report varying recommended dosages of Vitamin A for treating measles, often emphasizing the importance of high doses. Many reviews suggest specific quantities, such as 40,000 IU for children under seven and 60,000 IU for those older, followed by a daily dose of 25,000 IU (Read Review). Some users recommend administering two doses of 100,000 units, particularly at the onset of illness (Read Review). These higher dosages are often highlighted as crucial for helping children recover more effectively from measles symptoms.
7.5
Protect from measles
It is vital to take vitamin A at the onset of feeling unwell. With the current fear of measles, large doses are beneficial for protection. The earlier you start, the better.
9
Recovered faster from measles
During the measles outbreak, doctors prescribed large doses of vitamin A, helping people recover faster and with more ease. A reliable manufacturer.
9
Eases measles symptoms
This is the number one help for measles and more. I administered it to my children, and they experienced the illness quite easily.
7.5
Strengthens immunity
An excellent product! I provide it to my children in case of illness, and it even helps with measles. It's useful against infections and viruses, strengthening immunity. When combined with vitamins E, D3, and Omega-3, the complex effect is quicker. I also use it preventatively when healthy.
7.5
Recommended during outbreaks
Vitamin A is incredibly useful for our body, especially in large doses. Currently, with a measles outbreak, all integrative doctors advise high doses of vitamin A in their treatment regimens, even for children. It contains vital nutrients, supports eye health, and strengthens the immune system. I highly recommend it!
9
Facilitates measles recovery
1 people found this helpful
Helps with measles! I ordered this after receiving recommendations for nursing during measles. In the initial two days of illness, children under seven should receive 40,000 IU, while those over need 60,000 IU, followed by a daily dose of 25,000 IU. The retinol form is the most easily absorbed and effective!
9
Essential for measles
Vitamin A is essential for measles! I recommend that all children suffering from measles receive two doses of vitamin A, specifically 100,000 units.
8
No significant benefit for measles
Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children from six months to five years of age.
We assessed the effects of vitamin A supplementation on reducing illness and death in children aged six months to five years. Analyzing data from 47 studies involving over 1.2 million children, we found that while vitamin A significantly reduced overall mortality and incidents of diarrhoea, it did not show a notable impact on measles mortality.
There was a moderate reduction in measles incidence, but we need to note that the evidence regarding death from measles was inconclusive. Overall, vitamin A supplementation remains a valuable tool for improving child health, but its effect specifically on measles is unclear.
7
Vitamin A supplementation cost-effectiveness questioned
Cost-effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation among children in three sub-Saharan African countries: An individual-based simulation model using estimates from Global Burden of Disease 2019.
We explored the effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) in reducing measles-related mortality among children in Nigeria, Kenya, and Burkina Faso. Using a detailed simulation model, we calculated the costs and health benefits of increasing VAS coverage from 2019 to 2023.
While our results showed some reduction in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), the cost-effectiveness ratios ranged widely—ranging from $220 to $860 per DALY averted. Ultimately, it appears VAS may not be as cost-effective as previously thought, prompting experts to recommend alternative interventions like improved food fortification and vaccination coverage.
0
Vitamin A ineffective in measles treatment
Vitamin A in Children Hospitalized for Measles in a High-income Country.
We conducted a study to evaluate if vitamin A could improve outcomes for children hospitalized with measles in a high-income country. We followed 108 children at a hospital in Southern Italy, comparing those who received vitamin A to a control group. Unfortunately, we found no meaningful differences in fever duration, hospitalization length, or complication rates between the two groups. Ultimately, our results suggest that vitamin A supplementation does not alter the course of measles in these cases.
References
Kannan A, Tsoi D, Xie Y, Horst C, Collins J, et al. Cost-effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation among children in three sub-Saharan African countries: An individual-based simulation model using estimates from Global Burden of Disease 2019. PLoS One. 2022;17:e0266495. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0266495
Bose AS, Rai P, Gupta BP, Pradhan R, Lacoul M, et al. Nepal measles outbreak response immunization during COVID-19: A risk-based intervention strategy. Vaccine. 2022;40:2884. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.02.057
Imdad A, Mayo-Wilson E, Haykal MR, Regan A, Sidhu J, et al. Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children from six months to five years of age. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022;3:CD008524. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD008524.pub4
Lo Vecchio A, Cambriglia MD, Bruzzese D, Guarino A. Vitamin A in Children Hospitalized for Measles in a High-income Country. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2021;40:723. doi:10.1097/INF.0000000000003156