What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious infection caused by the measles virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes.
In Australia, local transmission of measles is very rare thanks to strong immunisation coverage. But cases still occur, mostly linked to overseas travel. Many foreign countries are currently seeing large scale measles outbreaks.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk, especially with international travel. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine provide the best protection and are recommended for anyone born during or since 1966.
FAQs
Who should get the measles vaccination?
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Anyone born during or after 1966 who has not received two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine, usually MMR, should be vaccinated.
Anyone who is not fully vaccinated against measles is strongly advised to be vaccinated before international travel to any destination.
People born before 1966 are generally considered immune because it's highly likely they had measles in childhood, as measles was widespread before vaccination programs began.
How long before travel should I get vaccinated?
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If you are not immune to measles, or are unsure of your vaccination status, consult with a doctor at least 6-8 weeks before travel about vaccination. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine are about 99% effective and provide long-lasting protection.
Can young infants receive the vaccine before the routine schedule?
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Infants aged 6–12 months who are travelling overseas may be offered an early dose of measles-containing vaccine after individual assessment. These infants still need the standard two-dose schedule from 12 months for full immunity.
What are common side effects of the measles vaccine?
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Side effects of vaccination are usually mild, such as a sore arm, redness at the site of injection, fever and rash.
Serious reactions are rare. For a full list of possible side effects see the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Vaccination is not advised for those who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system. Pregnancy should be avoided for 28 days after a measles vaccination.
What to Know
Measles symptoms
Initial symptoms of measles resemble flu-like illness lasting 2–4 days, including fever, runny nose, cough, red or sore eyes, and tiredness. Small white spots inside the mouth may appear. A characteristic red rash typically appears 2–7 days after symptoms begin, starting on the face or neck and spreading to the body.
Complications can be life-threatening and include pneumonia, ear infections and inflammation of the brain. In 2024, there were an estimated 95000 deaths due to measles around the world. In pregnant women, measles can lead to miscarriage or pre-term labour. Because measles is so infectious, one case can spread rapidly in communities with low immunity.
Measles diagnosis and treatment
If measles is suspected, prompt medical assessment is essential. Diagnosis is confirmed through laboratory testing, which may include a swab from the throat or nose, blood tests and a urine test.
Suspected cases should be managed in accordance with public health guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission. Confirmed cases are notified to public health authorities. Contact tracing allows preventive therapy to be given to those at risk and helps prevent further spread of the outbreak.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Management is supportive and focuses on symptom relief, maintaining hydration, and treating complications as they arise. Hospital admission may be required for severe illness or in individuals at higher risk of complications. Antibiotics are not effective against measles, as it is caused by a virus.
Measles prevention
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. In Australia, two doses of a measles-containing vaccine are recommended for all people born during or after 1966, from 12 months of age. The most common measles vaccination is measles-mumps-rubella (MMR). About 99% of people develop long-lasting immunity after two doses.
The World Health Organisation estimates that measles vaccination has averted nearly 59 million deaths globally between 2000 and 2024.
Measles vaccination is available under the National Immunisation Program and catch-up programs. Anyone unsure of their vaccination status should speak with a healthcare provider. Suspected measles cases should isolate and seek advice before attending in-person medical care to help prevent spread.