The measles outbreak in Texas has been a growing concern, affecting more than 200 people since mid-January. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed Secretary of Health and Human Services, has been vocal in his views regarding the outbreak and has made several controversial claims about how to treat measles, suggesting the use of supplements and steroids. In a recent 35-minute interview with Dr. Marc Siegel of Fox News, he pointed to treatments such as cod liver oil, steroids, and antibiotics as beneficial options for those infected with the virus.
Cod liver oil is known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamins A and D. Some studies indicate that children with low vitamin A levels can experience more severe symptoms during a measles infection, leading organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) to recommend vitamin A supplementation in areas where deficiencies are common. However, it’s essential to note that vitamin A deficiency is quite rare in the United States, with only about 0.3% of the population affected. The benefits associated with vitamin A come from high doses that far exceed what’s available in typical cod liver oil supplements. Moreover, excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to toxicity, which poses a risk that is more prevalent than deficiency in the U.S.
Kennedy has also promoted the use of budesonide, a type of steroid, along with an antibiotic named clarithromycin. He cited reports from local doctors claiming to have seen prompt improvements in patients using these treatments. While some steroids have been used in severe measles cases—such as during an outbreak in Italy in 2017—there isn’t enough evidence to routinely recommend steroids as part of standard measles treatment. Antibiotics can address secondary bacterial infections that might arise from measles but are ineffective against the viral infection itself.
In his interview, Kennedy downplayed the seriousness of measles, suggesting that severe cases and fatalities primarily affect individuals with poor nutrition or inadequate exercise. He stated, “It’s very, very difficult for measles to kill a healthy person,” indicating that those with better fitness levels are less at risk. While it’s accurate that malnutrition can increase the likelihood of severe measles outcomes, measles poses risks even to previously healthy children. Texas health officials reported that one death linked to measles involved an unvaccinated school-age child without any known underlying health issues. Vaccination is noted for being highly effective not only at preventing measles but also at mitigating the severity of infections when they do occur. The WHO reports that global vaccination efforts have saved approximately 60 million lives since 2000.
Recently, Kennedy has shown some support for measles vaccinations, acknowledging their effectiveness in preventing the disease and recommending them in communities where vaccination rates are low. However, he continues to assert that vaccines carry risks that may not be fully acknowledged by traditional public health directives, maintaining that vaccination should be a personal decision. His history includes promoting misinformation about vaccines, particularly linking the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to autism—a claim that has been extensively discredited.
In addition to his personal views, actions from agencies under Kennedy’s newly formed Health and Human Services have raised concerns regarding public trust in vaccines. Reports indicate that the CDC is considering launching a large study to reassess the discredited link between vaccines and autism despite a robust body of research disproving it. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health has ceased funding for crucial research aimed at addressing vaccine hesitancy, a move that could further affect public confidence in vaccination efforts.