Measles

Find out how we define and monitor cases of measles, how you can get vaccinated, and where you can learn more about this disease.

About measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease, spread by the droplets from when an infected person coughs and sneezes. Symptoms include a red rash and fever. In some people, it can be very serious. Measles is prevented by vaccination. It can affect non-immune people of all ages.

Disease type:
Vaccine-preventable
Vaccination available under NIP:
Yes
Notifiable disease:
Yes

Prevention

Measles can be prevented with vaccination. If you're eligible, you can get measles vaccines for free under the National Immunisation Program. See more information about when to get vaccinated.  

Vaccination

Find out more about getting vaccinated against measles.

Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

For information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, see healthdirect's measles page.

Surveillance and reporting

Measles is a nationally notifiable disease.

We monitor cases through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System.

For more on measles in Australia, you can search Communicable Diseases Intelligence

Date last updated:

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