As the number of measles cases continues to increase in Texas and New Mexico, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has attributed the spread of this contagious disease to malnutrition. The outbreak is believed to have originated in Gaines County, Texas, in late January 2025. Reports indicate that over 250 cases of measles have emerged in both states. In a recent statement, Kennedy Jr. emphasized the significant link between nutrition and the disease, which predominantly impacts children. He also proposed that treatments such as cod liver oil and antibiotics could be beneficial for those infected with measles.

Measles outbreak in the US: What did Robert F. Kennedy Jr say?

In a recent interview, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asserted that a healthy individual is unlikely to succumb to an infectious disease. He pointed out that in contemporary society, access to nutrition and medicine is prevalent. He suggested that malnutrition may be a contributing factor to the measles outbreak in Texas, stating, "The doctors I am speaking with on the ground, along with community leaders, report that those falling ill are primarily malnourished individuals, particularly children." He conveyed this information during an interview with Fox News.

Measles and malnourishment may be linked. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Kennedy Jr. further advised that maintaining good health is crucial in preventing the disease. He remarked, "It is exceedingly difficult for measles to be fatal to a healthy, well-nourished person."

Measles outbreak and malnourishment: Is there a link?

Indeed, there exists a significant correlation between malnutrition and measles. Dr. Saima Shabnam, an expert in emergency and critical care, explains, "A deficiency in essential nutrients weakens the immune system, rendering the body more susceptible to health issues such as measles, which is caused by the measles virus from the paramyxovirus family." The World Health Organization indicates that children who are malnourished or possess a compromised immune system face the highest risk of mortality from measles. A study published in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in 2022 revealed that malnutrition was a critical factor in 44.8 percent of childhood deaths attributed to measles.

Dr. Ravishankara Marpalli, a pediatrician, notes, "Inadequate nutrition, particularly a lack of vitamin A, increases children's susceptibility to severe measles infections." Vitamin deficiencies, especially of vitamin A, can lead to complications such as pneumonia resulting from measles. "Affected individuals may also experience diarrhea, blindness, and encephalitis due to this contagious disease," adds Dr. Marpalli.

Measles outbreak: Don’t healthy people get affected by it?

During the ongoing measles outbreak, it is important to recognize that even healthy individuals can be impacted. Dr. Shabnam states, "Healthy individuals can contract the virus if they are unvaccinated or have not developed immunity." However, in those who are well-nourished and healthy, the disease typically presents as mild to moderate. "The greatest risk is found among unvaccinated children and adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems, such as cancer patients," explains Dr. Marpalli.

Measles outbreak: Are there side effects of the vaccine?

As the global measles outbreak continues to raise alarms, the importance of vaccination is underscored. Below are some potential side effects of the vaccine that individuals should consider:

• Mild reactions may occur, including fever, rash, or tenderness at the injection site. "These are commonly reported by individuals receiving the measles vaccine," states Dr. Shabnam.
• In rare instances, more severe side effects, such as seizures, may occur. Nevertheless, there is no credible evidence linking the vaccine to significant harm in either children or adults. "The dangers associated with measles itself far exceed the risks associated with the vaccine," Dr. Shabnam adds.

Measles outbreak: Can antibiotics and cod liver oil help to treat it?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has reportedly proposed alternative treatments during the measles outbreak. According to media sources, he claimed that physicians have observed “very, very good results” when treating the illness with cod liver oil, budesonide (a steroid), and clarithromycin (an antibiotic).

• Budesonide: "This steroid is utilized for managing asthma and other respiratory issues," explains Dr. Marpalli. However, there is insufficient evidence to support its effectiveness in alleviating measles symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, and red rashes.
• Clarithromycin: Antibiotics like clarithromycin do not target the measles virus. "They may only be prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection, such as pneumonia, develops," Dr. Marpalli notes.
• Cod Liver Oil: This oil is rich in vitamin A, which is advantageous for individuals suffering from measles. Restoring deficient vitamin A levels can help prevent eye damage and blindness, and may also decrease the mortality rate associated with measles, according to the World Health Organization.

There is no antiviral treatment for measles. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

How to treat measles?

In light of the ongoing measles outbreak, there is currently no specific antiviral treatment available; therefore, the condition is addressed through supportive care.

• It is essential to maintain proper hydration to avoid dehydration during this outbreak.
• Dr. Shabnam advises that medications such as paracetamol can be beneficial in alleviating fever as part of the treatment for measles.
• Additionally, vitamin A supplementation is recommended, as it may help lessen the severity of symptoms.
• Should secondary bacterial infections arise, your physician may prescribe antibiotics.
• In cases of severe complications, such as pneumonia, hospitalization may be necessary.

As the measles outbreak raises concerns, it is important to note that individuals who are malnourished face a higher risk of mortality from measles. However, even those who are well-nourished, particularly unvaccinated individuals, may also be at risk.

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