Has a Measles Health Alert Been Issued for Victoria?
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Synopsis
A health alert for measles has been declared in Victoria, Australia, following a surge in cases. With 22 confirmed cases this year alone, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant. Discover more about the risk factors and vaccination efforts in this critical update.
Key Takeaways
- Health alert issued for measles in Victoria.
- 22 confirmed cases reported in 2025.
- Majority of cases acquired locally.
- Increased risk in greater Melbourne and Mitchell Shire.
- Vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% target.
Sydney, April 29 (NationPress) Authorities in the southeastern Australian state of Victoria have issued a health alert for measles due to a notable increase in cases.
The Victorian Department of Health confirmed that a new measles case has emerged from a traveler returning from Pakistan, who was infectious during a flight from Dubai to Melbourne on April 24.
As of Friday, there have been 22 confirmed cases of measles in Victoria in 2025—surpassing the total from 2023 and 2024 combined. Most of these cases have originated locally in Melbourne and its surrounding regions.
Victoria is recognized as Australia’s second-most populous state, housing over seven million residents.
Tarun Weeramanthri, Victoria's Chief Health Officer, expressed on Monday that there is an increased risk of measles in greater Melbourne and the adjacent Mitchell Shire.
“A rising number of measles cases have been contracted locally in Victoria,” he stated.
“The majority of recent infections have occurred in individuals who have not received two documented doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine.”
He further noted an ongoing risk of measles entering Victoria through international travelers, especially given the increasing cases worldwide.
Individuals who have spent time in greater Melbourne or the Mitchell Shire since early April are advised to watch for symptoms of measles, which include fever, cough, and general malaise, followed by a rash that typically starts on the face, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Measles can be transmitted through airborne droplets or contact with nasal or throat secretions. The World Health Organization reported that over 107,000 people succumbed to measles globally in 2023, with the majority being unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children under five.
The Victorian Department of Health has indicated that vaccination coverage for measles across Australia has dropped below the 95 percent national target since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The MMR vaccine is provided free of charge in Australia for anyone who has not previously received two doses.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of staying informed about health alerts like the current measles situation in Victoria. This serves as a reminder of the need for vaccination and public health vigilance, especially as we navigate the ongoing challenges posed by infectious diseases.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I experience symptoms of measles?
If you notice symptoms such as fever, cough, and rash, seek medical attention immediately.
Is the MMR vaccine available for free?
Yes, the MMR vaccine is free in Australia for individuals who have not received two doses.
How can measles be transmitted?
Measles spreads through airborne droplets or contact with nasal or throat secretions.
What are the risks of measles for unvaccinated individuals?
Unvaccinated individuals are at a higher risk of contracting measles and experiencing severe complications.
Why is there a rise in measles cases in Victoria?
The rise in cases is attributed to decreased vaccination rates and local transmissions.
