Quick links:
After years of very low case numbers in Australia, measles is back in the headlines. Recent measles alerts issued by NSW Health and the Queensland Government signal growing localised concern. At the same time, the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre reports that global outbreaks are increasing because routine vaccination rates have slipped. Their article on measles outbreaks linked to reduced vaccine coverage explains that millions of measles vaccine doses were missed or delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic and that global coverage has dropped to its lowest point since 2008.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. When vaccination rates fall and travel increases, the virus finds opportunities to spread again. Understanding what measles is, what the symptoms look like and how vaccination protects you is an important part of keeping both yourself and your community safe.
Measles is a viral infection caused by the rubeola virus, and it targets the respiratory system before spreading through the rest of the body. It is an airborne illness, which means the virus travels in tiny droplets released when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes. According to HealthyWA, these droplets can stay suspended in the air or settle on surfaces for up to two hours, which is why measles spreads so easily in indoor environments like shopping centres, clinics or airports.
The infection begins in the nose and throat, then multiplies rapidly and moves through the bloodstream. Once it spreads, it causes fever, inflammation and the well-known measles rash. The World Health Organization describes measles as one of the most contagious diseases in the world because someone can pass it on long before they look sick. A person with measles is usually infectious for about four days before the rash appears and up to four days afterwards.
In simple terms, measles is a fast-moving respiratory virus that spreads through the air, infects the whole body and is extremely difficult to contain.
Measles symptoms unfold in stages, and at first they can look like an everyday viral infection. According to
Healthdirect Australia, the most common early signs include:
- a sudden high fever
- cough
- sore or red eyes
- runny nose
- small white spots inside the mouth called Koplik spots
These symptoms usually appear before the rash, and a person can be contagious during this time without realising they are infected. After a few days, the well known measles rash develops.
The measles rash usually starts on the face before spreading downward across the neck, torso, arms and legs. The World Health Organization’s description explains that the rash is made up of flat red spots that may merge together. Small raised bumps can also appear on top of the flat patches.
The rash:
- typically appears 3 to 5 days after initial symptoms
- can be accompanied by another spike in fever
- usually lasts around a week
Many people only recognise measles once the rash appears, but by then, the person may already have been contagious for several days.
Most people recover from measles within a couple of weeks, but the illness can lead to serious health problems, particularly for young children and people with weakened immune systems. According to
HealthyWA and Healthdirect, measles temporarily weakens the immune system, making it easier for other infections to develop while the body is trying to recover.
Complications can include:
- ear infections, which may affect hearing
- severe diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration
- pneumonia, one of the most common and serious complications of measles
- encephalitis, a rare but dangerous inflammation of the brain that can cause seizures or long term neurological issues
Although these complications are not common in healthy adults, they can be life threatening for infants, pregnant women and people with compromised immunity. This is why early medical attention is important if symptoms appear after travel or exposure. It is also why maintaining high vaccination rates remains one of the most effective ways to protect vulnerable community members.
Although anyone without immunity can catch measles, some groups are more vulnerable to infection and complications. According to HealthyWA the people most at risk include:
- Babies and young children: Infants are too young to be fully vaccinated and can become seriously unwell if they catch measles.
- Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people: Adults born after 1965 who have not had two doses of the MMR vaccine remain at risk, especially if they travel.
- People with weakened immune systems: Individuals undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or living with immune compromising conditions are more likely to experience severe complications.
- Pregnant women: Measles during pregnancy can lead to health risks for both the parent and the baby, which is why immunity should be checked before becoming pregnant.
- Travellers to areas with outbreaks: People visiting countries where measles is circulating are more likely to be exposed and may bring the virus home without realising it.
Keeping vaccination rates high helps protect these vulnerable groups and reduces the chance of wider outbreaks.
Australia previously achieved measles elimination, which means the virus was not circulating continuously within the country. However, elimination does not mean zero cases forever. Recent alerts across the country from bodies such as The Queensland Government and NSW Health shows how travel related cases can lead to local outbreaks when they enter communities with pockets of under-vaccination.
The National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre explains that global measles cases have increased because routine vaccination programs were disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to millions of missed or delayed doses. With reduced vaccination coverage in many countries, travellers are more likely to be exposed overseas. When they return to Australia and the community has immunity gaps, clusters of cases can occur.
These outbreaks are a reminder that measles is still present globally and that maintaining strong vaccination programs is vital.
The measles vaccine is highly effective, offering strong protection when both recommended doses are given. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, has been used safely for decades and provides strong, long lasting immunity for most people. According to the National Immunisation Program, children receive two routine doses:
- the first dose at 12 months
- the second dose at 18 months (often given as MMRV, which also protects against chickenpox)
These two doses are important because one dose alone does not offer full protection. Together, they provide the best immunity and significantly reduce the chance of outbreaks in the community.
For adults, especially those born after 1965, it is worth checking your vaccination record. Many people are unsure whether they received both doses as children. Your GP can arrange a dose if needed, which is particularly important before travelling overseas where measles is more common.
Strong vaccination coverage helps protect individuals and the wider community, especially those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
There is no specific antiviral medication that cures measles, so treatment focuses on helping the body recover and managing symptoms.
Healthdirect recommends resting, staying hydrated and monitoring for signs of complications such as breathing difficulties or ongoing high fever. Because measles weakens the immune system, some people may need medical support to manage issues like dehydration, pneumonia or ear infections.
If you develop measles symptoms after travelling, seek medical advice immediately. The Smartraveller website provides up to date travel health advice and can help you understand any measles risks associated with your recent destinations. It is important to call ahead before visiting a clinic or emergency department so staff can take steps to reduce the risk of exposing others.
Isolation is essential once measles is suspected, as the virus spreads very easily through the air. Staying home, avoiding public places and keeping away from vulnerable individuals helps prevent further transmission and protects the wider community.
While health insurance cannot prevent measles, it can make a meaningful difference in how easily you access care if you or someone in your family becomes unwell. HIF offers several support options that help members manage complications, seek timely medical advice and stay prepared when travelling.
Members with HIF Hospital Cover may be able to claim benefits for hospital treatment if measles leads to complications such as pneumonia, dehydration or other conditions that require clinical care. Coverage depends on the level of hospital cover selected.
For international trips,HIF Travel Insurance provides additional reassurance. It can support members who become sick overseas or need to alter their plans because of illness, helping reduce the stress of managing health issues away from home.
These services work together to ensure HIF members have access to the right support at the right time, offering practical help and peace of mind during measles outbreaks or any unexpected health concern.
Staying Informed and Healthy
Staying informed is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your community. Regularly checking trusted public health resources, such as the WA Department of Health, which helps you stay aware of current outbreaks, exposure sites and advice for anyone who may have been in contact with a confirmed case. The Australian Government’s Immunisation Program also provides clear guidance on vaccine recommendations for different age groups, travel requirements and catch up doses.
Keeping your vaccinations up to date, following public health alerts and seeking medical advice early all play an important role in preventing further transmission. Community protection begins with individual responsibility, and HIF is here to support members with access to quality care, reliable information and health cover options that help you stay prepared at every stage of life.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the rubeola virus. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing and close contact with an infected person.
What are the early symptoms of measles?
Symptoms usually begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and small white spots inside the mouth known as Koplik spots. The rash typically appears a few days later. Seek medical advice promptly if these symptoms appear after travel or after being in a location listed on the WA Health measles exposure sites page.
How can measles be prevented?
Measles is preventable through two doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella. These vaccines are part of the routine schedule. Children receive their first dose at 12 months and a second dose at 18 months. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status can speak with their GP about a catch up dose.
Who is most at risk of measles?
People at higher risk include unvaccinated children, adults who have not had both doses of the MMR vaccine, travellers visiting countries where measles is circulating and individuals with weakened immune systems.
How do authorities manage measles outbreaks in WA?
WA Health monitors cases, identifies exposure locations and provides public alerts to help prevent further spread.
How can HIF support members during a measles outbreak?
Members who experience complications may be able to access treatment through HIF Hospital Cover.