This week, a dedicated team from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) arrived in Texas to assist in managing a concerning measles outbreak. The outbreak has garnered significant attention as it has escalated to 159 reported cases. In response, US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the importance of engaging with “front-line doctors” to understand effective strategies currently being utilized and to explore various therapeutics that the agency may have previously overlooked.
While there exists a highly effective measles vaccine, there is currently no specific antiviral treatment available for the virus. Secretary Kennedy has historically advocated for the use of vitamin A in treatment protocols. In a recent interview with Fox News, he proposed an unconventional treatment regimen consisting of a steroid, an antibiotic, and cod liver oil, which is known for its high vitamin A content. He praised two doctors from West Texas for implementing this alternative approach, claiming they have witnessed “almost miraculous and instantaneous recovery” in their patients.
The doctors mentioned by Kennedy have treated a significant number of patients during the ongoing outbreak. However, it is important to note that one of these physicians, Dr. Richard Bartlett, has a controversial history. In 2003, he was disciplined by the Texas Medical Board for the “unusual use of risk-filled medications.” This disciplinary action raises concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of the treatments being proposed.
During the Fox News interview, Secretary Kennedy revealed plans for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a clinical trial focusing on the effectiveness of budesonide, clarithromycin, and cod liver oil as treatment options for measles. He also recommended that local physicians consider incorporating vitamin A into their treatment protocols, suggesting its potential use as a prophylactic measure against the virus, despite conflicting opinions from medical experts.
While Kennedy advocates for vaccination as a personal choice, he acknowledged the importance of ensuring that individuals in undervaccinated communities receive appropriate therapeutic interventions. “At this point, we are recommending that people in those undervaccinated communities get vaccines,” Kennedy stated, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to public health during this outbreak.
Dr. Richard Bartlett, one of the practitioners endorsed by Kennedy, has faced scrutiny for his unconventional treatment methods. His past disciplinary action involved inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics and steroids to patients with various ailments, none of which were related to measles. The Texas Medical Board's investigation concluded that Bartlett mismanaged patient care, leading to unnecessary treatments and risks.
Despite these concerns, Bartlett has continued to advocate for what he describes as his “silver bullet” treatment for COVID-19, which incorporates the same steroid and antibiotic combination he is now suggesting for measles. His claims regarding the efficacy of such treatments have been widely criticized and deemed unsupported by scientific evidence.
Public health experts emphasize that the only proven method to prevent measles is through the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The CDC recommends two doses of the vaccine, which is 97% effective in preventing the disease. Kennedy’s recent remarks regarding alternative treatment options have sparked concern among health professionals who argue that his focus on non-vaccine interventions could mislead the public during a critical time.
Dr. William Moss, a pediatrician and infectious disease expert, reiterated that vaccines are essential in preventing measles infections. “Vaccines actually prevent people from getting measles, so you don’t need to treat them,” he stated, underscoring the importance of vaccination in controlling outbreaks.
In his interview, Secretary Kennedy made several statements that raised eyebrows among experts, including claims about the effectiveness of vitamin A and its role in preventing measles. These claims have been met with skepticism, as many health professionals assert that high doses of vitamin A can be toxic and that there is no substantial evidence supporting its preventative benefits against measles.
Moreover, Kennedy's comments regarding the health status of children in West Texas, including a tragic case of a school-age child who succumbed to the disease, have been met with criticism. Local pediatricians assert that the children in their care are well-nourished, contrary to Kennedy's assertions that malnutrition may be a contributing factor to the outbreak.
The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vaccination and accurate public health messaging. Experts urge that the focus should remain on proven preventative measures, primarily vaccinations, rather than unverified treatment regimens. The health and safety of communities rely on clear, evidence-based communication from health officials to effectively combat infectious diseases like measles.
