UK health officials have warned that outbreaks of measles in the West Midlands could spread to other towns and cities unless urgent steps are taken to boost MMR vaccine uptake. In a statement from the Health Security Agency - 216 cases have been confirmed with another 103 probable cases reported since October 2023. Most cases are in Birmingham and predominantly in children younger than 10. Read more
Advice for travellers
Measles is a highly contagious virus and can cause serious illness in people of all ages. Most cases reported in Australia are linked to overseas travel - both developing and developed countries. Travelvax Australia recommends travellers check their immunisation status for measles and other childhood diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis) and mumps 6 weeks before departure.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.