In brief:

• Cases of measles are increasing globally.
• People born in or after 1966 may not have full protection against measles.
• Checking your vaccination status, in particular before you travel, can help protect you.

If you were born during or after 1966, it’s time to check your measles vaccination status.

Experts estimate around 1.7 million Australians may not be fully protected against measles. This includes people in Canberra.

Measles-containing vaccines are on the childhood immunisation schedule at 12 and 18 months of age.

Many Australians born between 1966 and 2000 may have only had one measles vaccine as a child. Others may not know if they were fully vaccinated.

You need two doses of a measles-containing vaccine for the best protection.

If you don't know how many doses you’ve had, speak with your GP, pharmacist or immunisation provider. If you're unsure, it's safe to have another dose.

Measles can cause serious illness.

More measles outbreaks

Measles outbreaks are increasing around the world.

People may be exposed to measles overseas, which can lead to local outbreaks in Australia.

What Canberrans can do now

• Check your vaccination record through your myGov account or app, or by checking written records.
• Make sure you've had two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
• Speak with your GP, pharmacist or immunisation provider if you're unsure.
• Plan ahead prior to travelling overseas – make sure your family's vaccinations, including for measles, are up to date.

The importance of vaccination

A high rate of measles vaccination in the community helps stop outbreaks.

It also protects people most at risk, including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated.

Vaccination is even more important if you plan to travel overseas. You’re more likely to come into contact with measles outside Australia.

Parents travelling with babies aged 6 to 11 months should talk to their GP before they go. An early measles vaccine may be recommended.

Book your vaccination with your GP, pharmacist or other immunisation provider.

Measles vaccines are government-funded. A consultation fee may apply.

Identifying measles

Measles spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms can include:

• fever
• tiredness
• runny nose
• cough
• sore, red eyes.

A red rash usually appears a few days later and typically spreads from the face to the rest of the body.

You can find more information about measles, symptoms and vaccination on the ACT Government website.

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