MEASLES

Are you at risk?

The instances and severity of measles outbreaks have increased in several countries worldwide. Any person who is not vaccinated against the measles virus is at a very high risk of contracting it if they are exposed to somebody who is infected.

The measles virus can cause skin rashes and fever and can result in serious conditions and even death.
If you are experiencing symptoms of measles, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
As measles outbreaks are particularly common in countries outside of Australia, most measles outbreaks in Australia are caused by people who contract the virus overseas and return to the country. The measles virus spreads quickly among those who are not vaccinated, which can cause an Australian outbreak.

Measles vaccinations are recommended for children between 12 and 18 months, people travelling to countries where measles is common, there is a current outbreak, healthcare and residential care workers who have not had two doses of the vaccine, and anybody born since 1966 who has not had two doses of the vaccine.