The NSW Government is calling on people planning to travel overseas this April holiday period to ensure they and their family are fully protected against measles, as cases of the disease continue to rise. 

While measles is rare in Australia, it is still a common illness in many parts of the world, with large outbreaks currently in many countries, including Vietnam and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Measles can cause serious illness, particularly in young children. It remains a common cause of death in children under five in some parts of the world.

Already in NSW this year, there have been eight people who acquired measles while travelling in Vietnam and were infectious after arriving home. Some of these cases have spread the disease to family members back in Australia.

In February and March, the Northern NSW Local Health District advised people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case that was infectious while visiting several locations in Lismore, Casino and Kyogle.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free from the pharmacist for people over five years of age, or from a GP for people of all ages. Babies can have their first dose of the MMR vaccine from six months of age if they will be travelling overseas to a country with a high risk of measles activity.

Anyone arriving in Australia from overseas who develops symptoms should contact their GP right away so that they don’t expose others.

Symptoms of measles include:

• Fever
• Runny nose
• Sore eyes and a cough
• Red blotchy rash that can spread from the head to the rest of the body that appears a few days after the other symptoms

More information on measles can be found on the NSW Health measles factsheet.

If you or a loved one are experiencing measles symptoms or have questions about measles, please call your GP or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “Now is the time to get vaccinated if you are planning to travel abroad over the Easter holidays.

“Measles is one of the most infectious diseases there is, and we are concerned about it spreading quickly in under-vaccinated communities.

“Anyone who is not immune is at risk of developing the disease if they are exposed.

“But there is a free and very simple yet effective way to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community – getting vaccinated.”

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said, “Between 1966 and 1993 children were only given one dose of vaccine in the immunisation schedule.”

“We now know two doses are needed for best protection. So many adults born then will need another dose. Additional doses are safe so if you are unsure, visit your GP or pharmacist for a dose.”