Protecting Against Measles

Protecting Against Measles

As measles cases emerge across the country, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and protected. At Nillumbik Medical Centre, we offer timely vaccinations and advice on the best way to protect yourself and your family against measles.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• Protecting Against Measles
• What Is Measles?
• Why Measles Is a Growing Concern in Australia
• Measles and Children
• How To Protect Yourself and Your Family
• Catch-Up Vaccinations for Adults and Teens
• Avoiding Exposure
• Recognising the Symptoms of Measles
• When to See a GP in Melbourne
• FAQs: Measles and Vaccination
• Book Your Vaccine Today

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Just one infected person can spread the virus to 90% of nearby people who aren’t immune. While it may start with cold-like symptoms, measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and hearing loss, particularly in young children and adults with low immunity.

Why Measles Is a Growing Concern in Australia

Although Australia had previously eliminated endemic measles transmission, there have been some recent outbreaks. As more families travel, the risk of transmission increases, especially in communities with lower vaccination rates. The Department of Health in Victoria has recently issued warnings for areas across Melbourne, making it crucial for families to take preventive steps.

Measles and Children

Children under five are especially vulnerable when it comes to measles. Similar to the common cold, symptoms in children may include fever, rash, a runny nose, cough, lethargy, and red eyes. In more serious cases, measles can cause secondary infections such as ear infections, pneumonia, diarrhoea, or vomiting. A rare but serious complication is brain inflammation (encephalitis), which requires immediate medical attention. Without treatment, some of these complications can lead to seizures or, in severe cases, be life-threatening.

How To Protect Yourself and Your Family

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your child from measles. In Australia, children receive two doses of the measles vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. The first dose, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, is given at 12 months of age. The second dose, the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMR-V) vaccine, is administered at 18 months and also protects against chickenpox (varicella). Having both doses significantly lowers your child’s risk of getting measles.

Catch-Up Vaccinations for Adults and Teens

If you were born after 1965 and haven’t received both MMR doses, you may not be fully protected. Fortunately, catch-up vaccinations in Melbourne are easily accessible. At Nillumbik Medical Centre, we offer quick, convenient appointments for individuals of all ages.

Avoiding Exposure

During a measles outbreak, minimise your family’s risk by:

• Staying home if symptoms appear
• Practising good hygiene, like hand washing and sneezing into your arm
• Avoiding contact with unvaccinated individuals
• Avoid crowded areas

Recognising the Symptoms of Measles

Common measles symptoms to watch out for after exposure include:

• High fever (above 38.5°C)
• Cough, runny nose, red eyes
• Red blotchy rash, starting on the face and spreading
• Symptoms usually appear 10–12 days after exposure

When to See a GP in Melbourne

Seek medical help if:

• You suspect measles exposure
• You or your child develops symptoms
• You’re planning overseas travel and want to ensure immunity
• You need advice on measles vaccination in Melbourne

FAQs: Measles and Vaccination

• Is measles that dangerous? Yes. It can cause life-threatening complications, especially in young children and adults.
• How effective is the MMR vaccine? Two doses offer around 99% protection.
• Can I still get vaccinated if I missed out as a child? Absolutely—catch-up vaccinations in Melbourne are available through your GP.
• Are there any side effects of the vaccination? Most are mild—low fever, rash, or minor swelling.
• Where can I get vaccinated? Book with Nillumbik Medical Centre for trusted, local care.
• What do I do if I have a rash? Call reception from your car on arrival. We separate patients with rashes from others. Your doctor will call when ready to see you.

Book Your Vaccine Today

Vaccination not only protects you but also those in your community who are most vulnerable. Contact Nillumbik Medical Centre today to book your measles vaccination, review your immunisation history, or get advice from a trusted GP.