Measles has been making headlines again, and while this happens from time to time, it’s helpful to have a clear understanding of the facts so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family. Even in the year measles was declared eradicated, there were still about 50 reported cases, as small outbreaks naturally ebb and flow.. While measles is usually mild in healthy children, certain groups—including infants under one, pregnant women, and older adults—are more vulnerable to complications, and so I want to help provide some information to help you make your own informed decision.
By the time the MMR vaccine was introduced in 1963, measles-related deaths had already declined by 98%. Decades ago, “measles parties” were common as a way for children to gain lifelong immunity at an age when the illness was typically less severe. However, during this time, there were still about 400 measles-related deaths annually in the U.S. Today, deaths are very rare, but they do still happen. The overall case numbers have dropped significantly due to vaccination, though the mortality rate itself has remained the same.
Like any medical decision, it’s important to weigh both the benefits and potential risks of vaccination. With chronic and autoimmune diseases on the rise, some studies have explored possible connections. One study, the Klein study (see Link 1), compared GlaxoSmithKline’s MMR-RIT vaccine with Merck’s MMR II. While the study concluded that there were no safety concerns, a closer look at the supplementary data (Table 6) did reveal that:
3.4% (MMR-RIT) and 3.7% (MMR II) of recipients developed a New Onset Chronic Disease (NOCD)
10% of participants experienced an adverse event requiring an ER visit within six months
On Page S-5, the listed NOCDs include autoimmune disorders, asthma, type 1 diabetes, vasculitis, celiac disease, chronic thrombocytopenia, and allergies. If any of these conditions run in your family, it may be worth considering this as part of your decision-making process. For a deeper dive into both the risks of measles itself and potential vaccine risks, see Link 2.
Supporting the Immune System and Treatment Considerations
For those who are immunocompromised or in outbreak areas, extra precautions may be needed. Immunoglobulin therapy and antivirals are available, and Vitamin A has been shown to help reduce the severity of measles and lower the risk of complications; and there is data to support decreased death if given high dose Vitamin A. The MMR vaccine is available for prevention and is available at health departments for those who choose it.
For general immune support, Rosita cod liver oil is a great option (available through our Fullscript account). Taking the standard recommended dose daily, especially in winter, can be beneficial. If you prefer direct Vitamin A supplementation, I’d suggest sticking to standard dosing for about 2–3 weeks at a time to avoid excessive intake, as many other supplements also contain Vitamin A.
If You Suspect Measles Exposure
If you think you’ve been exposed to measles or start developing symptoms, self-quarantine to prevent spreading it to others. High-dose Vitamin A may help mitigate symptoms—see the mega-dose chart for guidance.
There’s a lot to consider when making health choices, and it’s always best to be fully informed. Take the time to explore the resources linked here, and make the decision that feels right for you and your family.
The toxic dose is this:
You give 25,000 IU per kg of body weight ( to get to kg from pounds- divide pounds by 2.2). Example: 40 lb child divided by 2.2 =18.18 kg. Then 18.18 kg x 25,000 IU 454,500 IU is a toxic dose for example.
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