The Victorian Health Department has announced an increased risk of measles in the state, particularly in Melbourne.
There is currently a global measles outbreak. Many destinations popular with Australian tourists, such as Indonesia and Thailand, have recorded a high number of cases.
Most states and territories have also announced new measles cases.
Reports of the disease have increased in recent years, from roughly 10 in 2022 to more than 170 in 2025.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious illness that causes rashes all over the body.
In some cases, it can lead to serious health complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain.
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Measles often begins with flu symptoms, such as a fever, cough and runny noise, before developing into a red and blotchy rash.
Health professionals recommend vaccinations to prevent measles.
Cases
On Sunday, the Victorian Department of Health said there is an “increased risk of measles [in the state]… especially in metropolitan Melbourne.”
It said the illness had been detected among people who had not recently travelled overseas.
A Federal Government database shows 12 recorded cases of measles in 2026 so far. There were 36 recorded cases in Victoria in 2025.
According to the same database, NSW has recorded 20 cases of measles and Queensland has recorded nine in 2026.
