Once considered a disease of the past, measles has been gradually making a return, with the current spike in cases putting public health authorities on high alert.
According to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, as of May 2025, 72 cases have been confirmed nationwide – the highest figure in six years. This surpasses the 26 cases recorded in 2023 and 57 in 2024, prompting urgent calls for increased awareness and vaccination.
What’s behind the measles outbreak in Australia?
The rise is being attributed to several factors. Australia’s national childhood immunisation rates have slipped below the 95 per cent threshold required for herd immunity in many areas, primarily due to disruptions during the pandemic, including delayed childhood vaccinations, missed boosters, and increased vaccine hesitancy.
In addition to falling immunisation rates, increased international travel has played a role. Several of this year’s measles cases have been linked to overseas travel, particularly to countries currently experiencing outbreaks. Measles is highly contagious and can remain airborne for up to two hours in a closed environment, making even brief exposure a big risk.
While many of us may assume we’re protected, a sizeable portion of the population may not be. This is because those born between 1966 and 1994 often received only one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, rather than the two now recommended. Without a second dose, you may not be fully immune.
Who should be worried about measles?
Babies under 12 months, pregnant women, those with compromised immune systems, and unvaccinated people are particularly vulnerable. Complications from measles can be severe and include pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare cases, death.
Despite the seriousness of the disease, it remains preventable. The MMR vaccine offers 99 per cent protection after two doses. It is safe, effective, and available free of charge to anyone in Australia born during or after 1966 who has not received both doses. If you’re unsure about your vaccination history, a catch-up dose is worth discussing with your GP.
You can check your Immunisation History Statement via your Medicare online account, through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Recognising the symptoms early can help limit the spread. Measles typically begins with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms are often followed, a few days later, by a distinctive red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body. Tiny white spots may also appear inside the mouth. You’re considered contagious from 24 hours before symptoms appear until about four days after the onset of the rash.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, particularly if you’ve been overseas recently, it is recommended that you remain at home and contact your GP by phone. This helps prevent the virus from spreading to others, particularly in waiting rooms or emergency departments.
