The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that unless immediate preventive measures are implemented, more than half of the world's nations will face a high or very high risk of measles outbreaks by the end of the year. Increase in measles cases is mainly due to missed vaccinations during COVID-19.
USA - US total rises to 35 cases in 14 states and NYC. Indiana first case in 5 years. Ohio and Washington report cases. Michigan - first case in 5 years, two cases in New Orleans, two in Louisiana and Florida's school measles cluster grows.
UK - 60 Additional Measles Cases in England Confirmed. UK total cases is 581 since October 2023.
Northern Ireland - First case in seven years.
Europe – cases reported in Romania, Austria, France. 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.