Australia has recorded almost as many cases of measles this year as the entirety of 2024.
Measles is a contagious airborne disease. Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose and a rash.
In Australia, children are vaccinated against measles as infants.
Although the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared measles eliminated in Australia in 2014, people travelling here from overseas can still bring the disease back with them, causing community outbreaks.
Cases
In 2024, there were a total of 57 cases in Australia. So far this year, Australia has recorded 54 cases.
NSW, which has the largest population, has recorded the most cases, with 20. The state recorded 18 cases overall in 2024.
Victoria, the second most-populous state, has recorded 16 cases compared to 17 across 2024.
According to the Victorian Health Department, the majority of recent cases are in people who have not had the full course of the measles vaccine.
Your contribution ensures The Daily Aus can continue doing the work you love.
I want to give $10 monthly to help TDA keep doing the news.
Your account details:
Why?
According to the WHO, the proportion of children receiving a first dose of the measles vaccine has declined from 86% in 2019 to 83% in 2023.
The WHO also said the COVID-19 pandemic reduced global immunisation efforts.
In a recent statement, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Anthony Lawler said: “Our historic high childhood immunisation rates offered strong protection against measles, but rates have recently dropped below targeted levels.”
Advice
Lawler said Australians should monitor any exposure site listings and follow local health authority instructions.
NSW Health encouraged residents who are unsure about their vaccination status to get a dose, particularly before travel.
Individuals with symptoms of measles are encouraged to avoid public areas and seek medical care.
