Measles cases rise in Australia, raising infection concerns

Measles has been eliminated from Australia since 2014, but experts are worried about a potential comeback. There have been rising cases in New South Wales and Victoria in recent years. In 2024, NSW reported 18 cases compared to six in 2023, while Victoria had 13 cases in early 2025, already surpassing 2024 figures. Currently, there are significant measles outbreaks in the United States and Southeast Asia. More than 300 cases have been reported in the US, including two deaths in Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expects these outbreaks to spread. Australia faces a heightened risk as more travelers return from these affected areas. The World Health Organization recommends a vaccination rate of 95% to achieve herd immunity, but Australia currently has only 92.21% of two-year-olds vaccinated. Some regions, like parts of NSW and Queensland, have even lower rates. Public health experts warn that these gaps can allow measles to spread if brought into the country. Those most at risk include children under one who are not vaccinated, as well as adults who have received only one dose of the vaccine. The measles vaccine, when administered in two doses, is about 99% effective. However, many adults and some children remain vulnerable. Recent statistics show a rise in measles cases after a period of zero cases during the COVID-19 pandemic. So far in 2025, Australia has reported 28 cases, which is an increase from previous years. Experts stress that measles is extremely contagious and can spread rapidly in under-vaccinated populations. Close contact with an infected person can easily lead to transmission, especially before symptoms appear.