West Texas Hospital Now Treating Vitamin A Overdoses

March 30, 2025 – Medical disinformation linked to the West Texas measles outbreak has led to a new health crisis, with children now being treated for toxic levels of vitamin A. Following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s promotion of the supplement as a measles treatment, some parents administered excessive doses, resulting in dangerous side effects.

There is no evidence that taking vitamin A will prevent measles.

Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock confirms that fewer than 10 pediatric patients hospitalized for severe measles complications are also experiencing vitamin A toxicity. Excess vitamin A can lead to nausea, dizziness, liver damage, and, in extreme cases, increased intracranial pressure. The hospital reports that affected children are showing signs of abnormal liver function due to excessive supplementation.

There are reports from the West Texas area that cod liver oil is in high demand and a big seller at area pharmacies.

While vitamin A plays a role in immune function and is sometimes used in controlled doses to support measles recovery, excessive intake can be harmful. Health professionals stress that supplementation should only be done under medical supervision. The situation highlights the dangers of misinformation and unverified medical advice, particularly during outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles. Experts urge parents to rely on evidence-based treatments and consult healthcare professionals before administering supplements, ensuring that efforts to protect children do not inadvertently cause additional harm.