Don't let people manipulate you with cherry-picked data.
Before the 1960s, most children contracted measles, and in developed countries, complications were rare.
Healthy children typically recovered without issues.
However, measles can be dangerous in malnourished children in developing nations or in populations newly exposed to the virus.
Vitamin A & D status is incredibly important.
Research suggests children who recover from measles between ages 4-7 may have lower rates of heart disease later in life (Kubota Y, Iso H, et al). An interesting association potentially relating to immune maturation.
Infants under one year are at highest risk for severe measles, but maternal antibodies from breastmilk provide passive immunity if the mother had natural measles.
Historically, measles mortality dropped sharply before the vaccine due to better nutrition, living conditions, and medical care. Measles parties and vitamin A (cod liver oil) were common preventive measures.
Severe measles cases in children are often linked to vitamin A deficiency.
High-dose vitamin A supplementation during measles infection significantly reduces complications and mortality.
