Measles – Information for the community
Alert for increasing measles infection in Victoria
Victorian Department of Health measles alerts and exposure sites
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis).
Victoria is currently experiencing an increased risk of measles, with cases occurring in people who have not travelled overseas or visited known exposure sites. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and help prevent the spread of measles.
If you are unsure of your vaccination status, you should get a catch-up measles vaccination.
Symptoms of measles:
Symptoms usually begin 7-18 days after exposure to the virus.
Early symptoms can resemble a cold or flu and may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or sore eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Feeling generally unwell
These symptoms are typically followed by a red rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body.
If you experience these symptoms, avoid close contact with others and seek medical advice immediately.
What to do if you have symptoms of measles
If you develop symptoms:
- Call your doctor or healthcare service before visiting
- Tell them you may have measles
- Wear a face mask if you attend a clinic or hospital
Calling ahead helps protect other patients and healthcare workers from infection.
For medical advice, you can also contact Nurse-on-Call (24/7) on 1300 60 60 24 or video call Virtual Emergency Care.
Protect yourself, your family and your community with the MMR vaccine
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective, and provides the best protection against measles.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are required for full protection.
You should get vaccinated if you:
- Were born during or after 1966 and have not had two doses
- Are unsure of your vaccination status
- Were born overseas and may have missed vaccination
- Missed routine childhood vaccinations
Many adults aged 20-59 years may have received only one dose of MMR under earlier vaccination schedules.
The vaccine is free and available even if you do not have a Medicare card. Please contact the public health unit if you have trouble accessing the vaccine for free.
Where to get vaccinated
The MMR vaccine is widely available from:
- General practitioners (GPs)
- The Vaccination Hub (a nearby local pharmacy). Click on the link below to check your eligibility and generate a voucher for a free.
Link here
- Aboriginal Health Services
- Some local councils and immunisation providers
Children receive the vaccine through the National Immunisation Program at 12 months and 18 months, or via catch-up vaccination.
Parents can check their child’s vaccination record using the Australian Immunisation Register or by consulting a healthcare provider.
Travelling overseas
Measles cases are rising internationally.
If you are travelling overseas:
- Check that your routine vaccinations are up to date, including MMR
- See a healthcare provider at least two weeks before travelling
- Infants from six months of age may be eligible for an early measles vaccination before travelling overseas
How measles spreads
Measles spreads easily through:
- Airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- Contact with nose and throat secretions
- Contact with contaminated surfaces and objects
Because measles is extremely contagious, vaccination helps protect you and your community.
More information
For more information, Better Health Channel – Measles information
Measles – Information for healthcare providers
If you are a healthcare provider suspecting or needing to notify a case, please call 24/7:
1 300 651 160
Refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook – Measles for further guidance on immunisation.
For further advice, contact the Ovens Murray Public Health Unit:
(02) 6048 1000