Measles Cases Are Rising: Here’s What You Need To Know
Measles is one of those illnesses many Australians assume belongs in the history books. Thanks to strong childhood immunisation programs, most of us grew up rarely hearing about it. But through 2025 and into 2026, measles cases have been increasing again across Australia.
Most cases have been linked to overseas travel, but there have also been instances of local transmission on our shores. It’s a reminder that measles hasn’t disappeared, it’s simply been kept at bay by high vaccination rates. When immunity gaps appear, even small ones, this highly contagious virus can resurface quickly.
The reassuring part? Protection is straightforward and long-lasting.
Why Measles spreads so easily
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads through respiratory droplets when one person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can linger in the air for up to 2 hours. You don’t need close contact, simply being in the same room is enough.
Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes before a distinctive rash appears.
While many people recover, measles can lead to serious complications including pneumonia and brain inflammation.
Vaccination remains the safest and most effective prevention tool.
Who should be thinking about vaccination?
The measles vaccine is given as part of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). Two documented doses provide strong, long-lasting protection. The Australian Government Department of Health advises that anyone without evidence of two doses should consider vaccination.
Where things become important is around year of birth.
- If you were born before 1966, you likely had measles naturally during childhood and are generally considered immune.
- If you were born between 1966 and 1992, you may have received only one dose, as the routine two-dose schedule was not yet standard.
- If you were born after 1992, you likely received two doses through the National Immunisation Program.
Adults born between 1966 and 1992 are therefore particularly encouraged to confirm they have received two documented doses. Many in this group assume they are fully vaccinated, when in fact they may have only had a single childhood dose.
The MMR vaccine is provided free for children under the National Immunisation Program, with catch-up programs available for eligible people under 20 and some newly arrived migrants. State-based programs may also apply in certain circumstances.
If your records are unclear, it is safer to check than assume. Your knowledgeable Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist or your GP can help review your history, discuss eligibility and advise whether catch-up vaccination is appropriate for you.
Planning pregnancy? This is especially important
Immunity to measles and rubella is particularly important when planning pregnancy.
Rubella (also known as German measles), which is prevented by the MMR vaccine, can cause serious complications if infection occurs during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. These may include miscarriage or congenital abnormalities.
Measles infection during pregnancy has also been associated with increased risk of maternal illness and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature birth and low birth weight.
For this reason, confirming immunity before pregnancy is recommended.
It is important to note:
- The MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy.
- Women are advised to avoid pregnancy for 28 days after vaccination.
- There is no risk to a pregnant woman from contact with someone who has recently been vaccinated.
If you are planning pregnancy and are unsure of your vaccination history, speaking with a healthcare professional allows time to review your records and arrange vaccination safely if required.
Measles and travel
Measles remains common globally, and most recent Australian cases have been linked to overseas travel, according to the Australian Centre for Disease Control.
If you’re planning an international trip, reviewing your MMR vaccination status is a simple and sensible precaution.
Key takeaways
Measles isn’t just a childhood illness from decades past, it’s highly contagious and can re-emerge when immunity gaps appear. Two documented doses of MMR vaccine for select age groups provides strong, long-lasting protection.
If you were born between 1966 and 1992, are planning a pregnancy, travelling overseas, or are unsure about your vaccination history, now is a sensible time to check. Speak with your Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist or your GP to review your eligibility and discuss whether vaccination may be appropriate for you.
Vaccines are administered by a qualified pharmacist or an authorised immuniser and are subject to vaccine availability and pharmacist clinical assessment. Charges may apply. Some patient groups may be eligible for free vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) or state/territory funded programs, enquire in store for further details.
References:
- Australian Immunisation Handbook – Measles: https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/measles
- Australian Government Department of Health – Measles Immunisation Service: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/immunisation-services/measles-immunisation-service-0
- Better Health Channel – Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chickenpox Immunisation: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/measles-mumps-rubella-varicella-chickenpox-immunisation
- Australian Centre for Disease Control – Measles: https://www.cdc.gov.au/topics/measles
