A growing measles outbreak in West Texas has led to several hospitalizations and a concerning trend of parents treating their children with vitamin A, which can cause toxicity.
According to Dr. Lara Johnson, a pediatric hospitalist at Covenant Children’s Hospital, the hospital has seen “fewer than 10 cases” of vitamin A toxicity in Lubbock patients who initially came in for measles complications. The children were diagnosed after routine lab tests showed abnormal liver function linked to excessive vitamin A intake.
The outbreak comes amid a nationwide measles surge, with over 600 reported cases across the US as of April 4. Texas has seen 481 cases since late January, including 56 hospitalizations.
Measles is highly contagious and can be life-threatening for babies and young children. While some doctors have suggested using vitamin A to treat or prevent measles, this claim has been disputed by experts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends only “supportive care” under medical supervision for measles patients.
Vitamin A toxicity can cause a range of symptoms, including liver damage, blurred vision, bone pain, and hair loss. While the condition is usually treatable, excessive intake can be particularly hazardous in children.
Health officials emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, with a 97% efficacy rate for two doses of the MMR vaccine. The CDC also notes that vitamin A may help alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from measles-related deficiencies, but only under medical guidance.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2025/04/04/texas-vitamin-a-toxicity-measles-patients/82871895007