Measles is a highly contagious viral infection.  It starts in a child’s airways and spreads throughout the body. 

In Australia, measles is usually a rare condition, but this year there has been an increase in the number of measles cases presenting in children in the community, including in NSW. 

Most measles cases in Australia are found in:

• infants too young to be vaccinated;
• young adults who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated;
• people who have travelled and been infected overseas.

The best protection from measles is getting vaccinated with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. 

Vaccination schedule

Children in Australia are recommended to receive two measles vaccines at:

• 12 months and,
• 18 months.

The first vaccine given at 12 months is MMR and protects against measles, mumps and rubella.  The second vaccine given a 18 months is the Measles-Mumps-Rubella and Varicella (MMRV) vaccine and protects against from measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. These vaccinations provide high protection in most children.

Check your immunity

Check yours or your child’s immunisation history with the Australia Immunisation Register, alternatively ask your doctor for a blood test to check for immunity.

Receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine or previously having measles infection, will provide high immunity against the virus. 

Someone may be at greater risk of being infected with measles if they:

• were born between 1966 and 1994 or,
• migrated to Australia.

These groups of people are at greater risk because they are less likely to have had measles, only had one dose of the measles vaccine, or missed both doses of the scheduled vaccines.

Before you travel

All people travelling overseas are urged to be fully vaccinated for measles (two doses of measles vaccine). In infants 6 - 12 months old, an additional first dose of MMR can be given to protect them from measles. They will still need have the usual two doses of measles vaccine later.

Infants under 6 months old who are travelling do not need to be vaccinated against measles early.   They will be protected from measles if their mother has been vaccinated or had measles infection before.  

Speak to your local doctor about whether your child should be vaccinated before travelling.

See the National Immunisation Program Schedule and Smart Traveller for more information.

Suspect your child has measles

Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for free advice. 

Before visiting an Emergency Department or doctor, call ahead to notify them. They will be able to prepare a safe place for your child to be seen.