Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness causing a skin rash and fever. It spreads -to-person-to-person and can potentially lead to serious health complications.
Due to widespread vaccination in the community it is rare in Australia. There have been eight cases of measles identified in Victoria in 2025. These cases were infectious at multiple locations around Melbourne and Greater Bendigo. Exposure sites are available on the Department of Health website.
People with measles are infections from 24 hours before symptoms appear until four days after the rash appears. The virus can survive up to two hours in the air or on surfaces.
The best way to protect yourself and your family from measles is to get vaccinated. Two doses of the measles vaccine provides long-term protection in 99% of vaccinated people. If you are unsure of whether you have been vaccinated, or want to find out more information regarding the vaccines please talk to your GP.
It is recommended that children are given the MMR vaccine at 12 months of age and the MMRV vaccine at 18 months of age. Importation of measles after international travel is the most significant source of measles cases in Australia. If you are planning overseas travel you should speak to your GP to ensure you are fully vaccinated before leaving Australia.