In the context of a number of ongoing outbreaks around the world, we have seen an increase in reported cases of measles in Australian states and territories.
Australians should not be alarmed by this. While our historic high childhood immunisation rates offer strong protection against measles, there are some precautions that can help to keep you and your family safe.
Measles is a highly infectious, acute viral illness. It spreads by respiratory secretions, aided by coughing or sneezing, and direct person-to-person contact. Signs and symptoms of a measles infection can include fever, fatigue, conjunctivitis (red eyes), a severe cough and a runny nose.
Typically, the telltale blotchy red rash appears around 3 to 7 days after the onset of respiratory symptoms. It can spread over the entire body but, unlike chickenpox, it is not an itchy rash.
In 2014, because our endemic measles strain had not been circulating in Australia for several years, the World Health Organization declared measles eliminated in Australia. While measles cases can be imported by travellers infected overseas, we usually see fewer than 100 cases a year.
Australian epidemiologists continue working in the states and territories to trace the contacts of confirmed cases. People in areas experiencing an outbreak should monitor any exposure site listings and follow their local health authority’s instructions.
Measles vaccination is very effective. In Australia, 2 doses of measles vaccine offers 99% protection against illness and serious complications. Most people will have received their vaccination as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP). The NIP schedule includes 2 doses of the measles vaccine for children aged 12 and 18 months.
Our historic high childhood immunisation rates offered strong protection against measles, but rates have recently dropped below the targeted levels that ensure the highest level of protection possible.
Catch up vaccinations are also available for people up to 20 years old under the NIP. Some states and territories also fund measles-containing vaccine for:
- adults born during or after 1966
- children aged 6 months to less than 12 months who are travelling to a country where measles is endemic or outbreaks are occurring.
Providers are reminded to confirm whether patients are eligible for a free vaccine under local arrangements during routine individual risk assessments.
People who never received a measles vaccination as a child or have not had measles should consider getting vaccinated.
I encourage you to check which vaccines you have received in the past 30 years. It is particularly important to check before travelling to areas experiencing a measles outbreak.
Individuals can check their Immunisation History Statement for any vaccinations they have received that have been reported to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), by using their Medicare online account, through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.
People born before 1996 may find some data is limited. This is because the AIR only records vaccines from 1996 onwards and mandatory reporting requirements came into effect in 2021.
There is a lot of information and misinformation about measles and the measles vaccination.
People should always check the information they receive, and its source – especially before sharing. Reliable information about measles and vaccinations can be found on CDC.gov.au or healthdirect websites.
If you think you may have measles, you should call your doctor immediately. You should also speak with your doctor if you have been in contact with someone with measles.
Do not go to the clinic if you don’t want to infect people in the waiting room.
Rather, call your doctor’s practice, and they will let you know the safest way to see them.
Ask your doctor about the appropriateness of other ways of being seen, such as through a telehealth appointment.