Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin A has scientific support for its use in the context of certain viral infections, most notably measles. Numerous studies, including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, have demonstrated that vitamin A supplementation can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality associated with measles, especially in children suffering from vitamin A deficiency. The World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend high-dose vitamin A supplementation for children with acute measles in areas where vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem. The mechanism is believed to be related to vitamin A’s critical role in maintaining the integrity of epithelial tissues and supporting immune function, particularly in mucosal immunity, which is essential in fighting viral pathogens. Beyond measles, the evidence for vitamin A’s effectiveness against other viral infections is less robust. Some observational and laboratory studies suggest that adequate vitamin A status may support the immune response to various viruses by enhancing the function of T and B lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and the production of antibodies. However, clinical trials outside the context of measles are limited, and routine vitamin A supplementation for general viral infections is not widely recommended unless deficiency is present. Excessive intake can also be toxic. In summary, vitamin A’s use for treating certain viral infections—especially measles in children—is supported by solid scientific evidence, but broader antiviral benefits remain less definitively proven.

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