As the world grapples with a resurgence of measles infections, public health experts are sounding the alarm over the importance of vaccination. Australia, which had previously eliminated local transmission of the virus, is now witnessing a troubling rise in cases. With 70 reported infections as of May 1, 2025—surpassing the totals from the previous two years—concern is mounting about the potential threat to public health.
The Current Situation
Recent data indicates that measles is re-emerging as a global health crisis. Outbreaks are occurring in multiple regions worldwide, with Australia particularly affected. Most of the current cases involve travellers returning from popular destinations in Southeast Asia, although there are also instances of community transmission—an alarming sign that the virus is still circulating locally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has now classified the UK as no longer having “eliminated” measles, highlighting a worrying trend across nations. This resurgence follows a period of relative control, making the current situation all the more concerning.
Understanding Measles
Measles is notoriously one of the most contagious diseases known to humanity. It can spread rapidly, with a single infected individual able to transmit the virus to between 12 and 18 others who are not immune. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, making it easy for unvaccinated individuals to inhale it even after the infected person has left the vicinity.
Primarily affecting children and individuals with compromised immune systems, measles can lead to severe complications. Approximately 40% of those infected require hospitalisation, and tragically, up to three in every 1,000 cases can result in death. In 2023 alone, global measles-related fatalities exceeded 100,000.
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms typically manifest 7 to 14 days post-exposure and include a distinctive rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, and conjunctivitis. The rash usually begins on the face, spreading downwards over several days. Complications can include ear infections, swelling of the brain (encephalitis), pneumonia, and in some cases, long-term neurological conditions.
Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to severe complications, which can lead to preterm labour and stillbirth. Even those who recover from measles may face the risk of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a rare but fatal brain condition that can emerge years after the initial infection.
The Vaccine: A Lifeline
The measles vaccine, often delivered as part of a combined MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) immunisation, contains a weakened form of the virus. In Australia, children receive their first dose at 12 months and a second dose at 18 months of age. For those at higher risk, such as infants travelling abroad, an early dose may be administered as young as six months.
Despite its effectiveness—after two doses, about 99% of individuals gain lifelong immunity—there are still gaps in coverage. Adults born between 1966 and 1994 are at greater risk due to the late introduction of the second dose in the vaccination schedule. It’s safe for these individuals to receive an additional vaccine dose if unsure about their immunity status.
The Importance of Community Immunity
While the measles vaccine is highly effective, it is a live vaccine and not suitable for those with weakened immune systems or pregnant women. Therefore, widespread vaccination among the healthy population is crucial to protect vulnerable groups and prevent outbreaks.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of measles serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination in safeguarding public health. The rise in cases not only threatens individual lives but also jeopardises community immunity, risking the health of those who cannot be vaccinated. Engaging in vaccination efforts is not only a personal responsibility but a collective obligation to protect society’s most vulnerable members. As the world continues to face these outbreaks, the call to action for vaccination has never been more urgent.
