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Okla. Poison Ctr. highlights Vitamin A use during Measles outbreak

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The Oklahoma Poison Center on Wednesday, released a statement regarding measles outbreaks and Vitamin A toxicity asking Oklahomans to be mindful to use vitamin supplements only as recommended by health care professionals. 'If you're concerned about measles, the best thing you can do is get vaccinated and talk to your physician. Vitamin A is not the answer,' said Dr. Claire Epperson, associate medical director for the Oklahoma Poison Center. The Oklahoma Poison Center strongly warns against self-medicating with vitamin A. It does not prevent measles. It does not cure measles. 'A lot of mad people right now': Guthrie food trucks get the boot from popular spot Oklahoma Poison Center officials say, Vitamin A is not a substitute for vaccination noting taking a extra amount of any vitamin can cause serious harm additionally stating there has not been an increase in vitamin A-related calls and received one call this year related to an unintentional therapeutic error. 'We want to reassure the public that we are not currently experiencing a trend, but we feel it is important to provide clear, evidence-based guidance,' said Kristie Edelen, managing director of the Oklahoma Poison Center. 'Overdosing on vitamins, even with good intentions, can lead to serious health effects –particularly in children,' Edelen said. 'The Oklahoma Poison Center urges parents and caregivers not to attempt to treat or prevent illnesses like measles with high-dose vitamins without consulting a medical professional. The most effective way to protect against measles remains vaccination, as recommended by health care providers and public health authorities.' If you or someone you know has questions about vitamin A, medications, or supplement use, contact the Oklahoma Poison Center are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-222-1222. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.