What you need to know about measles

Many older Australians recall measles as a common childhood illness, often dismissed as a mild inconvenience. 

However, measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and even death. 

Recent outbreaks in Australia and globally have reignited concerns about measles, prompting some seniors to reassess their immunity status and consider vaccination.  

Measles spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Initial symptoms resemble those of a cold – fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes – followed by a distinctive red, blotchy rash. 

While anyone can contract measles, certain groups are at higher risk of severe outcomes, including young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. 

While you may not fall into any of those groups, if your friends, colleagues, or family members do, then you need to know about measles.  

As of early 2025, Australia has reported a significant rise in measles cases, with the number of cases reported in the first quarter of the year close to the total number of cases last year. 

Health officials attribute this increase to a decline in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic and increased international travel to regions experiencing outbreaks, such as Southeast Asia.