Key messages
- A new measles case has been reported in Victoria in an adult who likely acquired their infection overseas after travel to Europe and Bali.
- There is an ongoing risk of measles importation in travellers returning from overseas. There are several outbreaks in South-East Asia currently, including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, with Queensland and Western Australia recently reporting measles cases in returned travellers from Bali.
- New public exposure sites have been listed. Anyone who has visited a listed exposure site during the dates and times specified should monitor for symptoms of measles and follow the instructions provided.
- Measles is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious illness.
- Measles is mainly spread through airborne droplets and contact with respiratory secretions.
- Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others. Two doses of vaccine are required for immunity.
- Anyone planning to go overseas, particularly South-East Asia, should make sure their routine vaccinations are up to date, including the MMR vaccine. Vaccination is recommended at least two weeks before departure.
- If you were born during or after 1966 and haven’t had two doses, or you don’t know, get vaccinated.
- Free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is available under the National Immunisation Program and state-funded program. A Medicare card is not required to get a state-funded vaccine.
- The MMR vaccine is widely available at general practitioners and pharmacies.
- Infants from 6 months and before 11 months of age can receive a state-funded dose of MMR vaccine prior to overseas travel to countries where measles is endemic or where outbreaks are occurring.
- Healthcare professionals should be alert for measles in any patients with fever and rash, regardless of travel history.
- Clinicians should test, isolate and notify suspected measles cases immediately to their Local Public Health Unit by calling 1300 651 160.
- Immunisation providers should offer MMR vaccine to anyone without documented evidence of two doses.
