Measles typically develops around 10 days after being exposed to the virus, but this can vary from 7 to 18 days. 

Measles is highly infectious and can spread via airborne droplets to people close by (e.g. in waiting rooms). Droplets in the air may still infect people entering a room up to 30 minutes after an infected person has left it.

If someone not already immune to measles visited an exposure location during the specified dates and times below, they are advised to monitor for symptoms between 7 to 18 days after the visit. Persons who have received two measles vaccinations and those born before 1966 are considered immune to measles, on rare occasions, vaccinated individuals may develop a mild illness.

There is no ongoing risk of measles at these locations.

Several countries around the world are experiencing measles outbreaks. People travelling to these countries are at risk if they do not have immunity to the measles virus. See smartraveller.gov.au for more information on risk of infectious diseases for Australians overseas.

Exposure locations

Anyone who has visited the following locations during the days/times listed, should be vigilant for symptoms of measles, and seek medical advice if symptoms occur.

New locations are listed in bold here: Measles alert

Who is at risk?

• Anyone who has travelled overseas or attended any of the above listed areas, and are not immune to measles, are at risk of developing measles. Those presenting with signs and symptoms of measles should be tested and the Department of Health notified. Note there is no ongoing risk of measles at the above-named locations outside of the dates and times listed.
• Anyone born after 1965 and who has not received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine is at risk of contracting measles. Vaccination status should be confirmed with documented evidence of vaccination or immunity (via a blood test).
• Those at risk of severe illness from measles include immunocompromised people, young children and pregnant women.

Symptoms and transmission

Symptoms of measles include:

• Fever
• Tiredness
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Sore red eyes.
• Red blotchy rash that appears 3-4 days later. The rash usually starts on the face before spreading down to the body and can last for 4-7 days.

People with measles usually feel very unwell, and some may end up in hospital. Complications include pneumonia, and less often, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

People with measles are usually infectious (able to pass on the virus to others) from one day before their symptoms start and for four days after their rash appears.

Recommendations

General public

Anyone who attended the exposure sites during the listed dates and times, may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms from 7 to 18 days after attending that location.

People with measles typically develop symptoms around 10 days (range 7-18 days) after being exposed to the virus.

Anyone who develops symptoms of measles should put on a mask, isolate and seek medical care to be tested for measles.

Before visiting a general practice clinic or emergency department, it is important to:

• call ahead to let them know of a potential measles infection, so they can provide instruction on where to go and ensure appropriate isolation measures are taken to prevent spread to other patients or staff
• follow their instructions, including wearing a mask when attending

Anyone concerned they may have measles and require medical advice after hours can contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

The general public are urged to stay up to date with their vaccinations. People born after 1965 should make sure they have had two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine at some stage in their life.

Anyone planning overseas travel should see their general practitioner or a travel doctor to discuss appropriate vaccinations prior to travel.

• Babies as young as six months can receive a measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine prior to travel overseas to countries where measles is prevalent.
• The first dose of MMR vaccine is usually given at 12 months as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) schedule. If a baby receives an early dose of MMR vaccine (e.g. at eight months) prior to travelling overseas, it is recommended they still receive their routine 12-month and 18-month doses in line with the NIP schedule.