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Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness, which can cause serious disease, hospitalisation or death.

Measles was common in Australia before measles vaccination was added to the childhood immunisation program in the 1970s.

However, measles remains widespread in many parts of the world.

International travellers continue to bring cases into Australia, increasing the risk of outbreaks among people who are not protected.

Vaccination is the best protection against measles.

Who is at risk

If you are not vaccinated against measles and have not had measles before, you are at risk of infection.

You need 2 doses of the vaccine to be immune.

Those who were born before 1966 were most likely exposed to measles and are considered immune.

How it spreads

Measles is extremely contagious.

Up to 9 out of 10 people who are not immune will become infected if they are exposed to an infected person.

This can be through:

  • direct contact
  • coughing and sneezing
  • sharing airspace in an enclosed area.

Symptoms

Measles usually starts with a flu-like illness that lasts 2 to 4 days.

For more detail about the symptoms listed below, follow the links to the healthdirect website.

Common symptoms include:

A non-itchy, red and blotchy rash appears 2 to 7 days after symptoms start.

The rash usually starts on the face or upper neck and then spreads to the body. It lasts for 4 to 7 days.

Measles is often severe. Complications can include:

Infectious period

People with measles are infectious from the day before their symptoms start until 4 days after the rash appears.

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare professional straight away if:

  • you think you might have measles
  • have been in contact with someone who has measles.

They can diagnose measles with a test. The test might need a:

  • blood sample
  • urine sample
  • swab from your nose and throat.

There is no specific treatment or medicine for measles. But there are treatments to help with symptoms and complications.

How to protect yourself and others

If you have or think you have measles:

  • stay home and isolate from others
  • avoid contact with people, especially those not immune to measles
  • do not go to work, school, child care or public places
  • call your GP or health clinic before attending
  • wear a mask if you need to seek medical care
  • follow the advice of your doctor and public health team.

Vaccination

Vaccination is the best way to protect against measles.

The measles vaccine is safe, effective and helps prevent serious illness and complications.

If you are are not already immune, 2 doses are recommended.

When to get it

Children:

  • children receive the vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age under the National Immunisation Program
  • babies aged 6 to 12 months can be vaccinated before travelling overseas.

Adolescents and adults:

  • vaccination is recommended if you are born during or after 1966 and have not had 2 doses
  • 2 doses should be given at least 4 weeks apart.

Cost

Measles vaccination is free in the NT if you:

  • were born during or after 1966
  • have not already had 2 doses.

Talk to your healthcare professional for more advice about measles vaccination.

Learn more

To find out more, go to the:

Find your nearest Centre for Disease Control contact on the NT Health website.

Information for health professionals

Go to the NT Health website.