Measles update

Measles vaccinations

The Chief Medical Officer has written to healthcare professionals regarding the increase in measles cases and declining vaccination rates. The letter highlights key recommendations including catch-up vaccination advice and the importance of discussing measles protection with patients.

Read letter.

Measles vaccination access

MPHN would like to share the following important reminder from the Chief Medical Officer regarding measles vaccination access and eligibility.

In addition to the National Immunisation Program funded measles vaccines, some states and territories also fund measles-containing vaccine for specific cohorts. Dependent on the state or territory, these cohorts may include:

  • Children aged 6 months to less than 12 months who are travelling to a country where measles is endemic or where outbreaks are occurring

  • Adults born during or after 1966

Vaccination providers are reminded to check whether patients are eligible for a free measles-containing vaccine under local jurisdictional arrangements, particularly during routine risk assessments.

For further details on NSW vaccination programs, please refer to: Additional Commonwealth and NSW-funded free vaccines

Vaccination history and AIR records

Providers are encouraged to assist patients in reviewing their measles vaccination history, particularly if they are planning to travel to areas with active measles outbreaks. While the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) provides access to vaccination records, it is important to note:

  • The AIR only records vaccines administered from 1996 onwards

  • Mandatory reporting to the AIR began in 2021

Patients can access their Immunisation History Statement via their Medicare online account, through myGov, or by using the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.

Additional clinical resources

We thank all providers for your continued efforts to prevent the spread of measles and protect community health.

Margot Schoonmaker