Traveling Abroad? Protect Yourself From Measles with These Essential Tips!

As travel restrictions ease globally, an alarming health alert has been issued by NSW Health warning people to be attentive to signs of measles. On March 26, it was revealed that an infectious individual had been in Sydney Airport and various locations in Western New South Wales after returning from Southeast Asia—regions currently grappling with measles outbreaks in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia.

The alert comes amid a concerning trend of rising measles cases not only in Australia but worldwide. With the increasing popularity of travel, understanding how to safeguard yourself and your loved ones against this highly contagious virus is crucial.

What is Measles and Why You Should Care?

Measles is one of the most infectious viral diseases known to humankind. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes; one infected individual can transmit the virus to an average of 12 to 18 others who are not vaccinated.

Initial symptoms may seem mild, with fever, runny nose, and cough, but can escalate to a characteristic non-itchy rash that usually develops starting from the hairline. While primarily a concern for children, adults can also get the disease, accounting for about 10-20% of cases during outbreaks.

Severe complications are not uncommon—one in ten children with measles faces severe health issues such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or even brain inflammation.

The Life-Saving Power of the Measles Vaccine

Since its introduction in 1963, the measles vaccine has saved millions. In fact, it is estimated to have prevented over 60 million deaths in the 21st century alone. In Australia, the vaccine is provided free through the National Immunization Program, typically administered at 12 and 18 months as part of the combined MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.

Despite some persistent myths, studies have extensively disproved any link between the measles vaccine and disorders such as autism. The vaccine is considered both safe and effective. However, those with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients or pregnant women—should avoid it, relying instead on community immunity to protect against virus spread.

A staggering 95% of the population must be immunized to curb outbreaks effectively, making it vital for both vaccinated individuals and those needing vaccinations to protect the vulnerable.

Global Immunity Gaps: A Growing Concern

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted routine immunization efforts, causing alarming immunity gaps. In 2023, just 83% of children worldwide received the measles vaccine by their first birthday, a significant drop from 86% in 2019. This decline has put communities at heightened risk, especially with various countries, including the U.S. and parts of Europe, facing their outbreaks.

In Australia, the percentage of children vaccinated with the MMR vaccine has also dropped marginally, which could lead to an escalation in cases. Small declines in vaccination rates hint at worrying trends—these gaps can only widen if left unaddressed.

Current Outbreaks and the Importance of Precautions

As of 2025, Australia has seen a rising number of measles cases, with 37 reported already compared to 57 in all of 2024, highlighting the critical importance of protecting yourself before you travel. Popular destinations like India, Thailand, and Indonesia are currently facing significant outbreaks, but no country is immune from the risk of measles.

Travelers, especially those heading to these hotspots, should get vaccinated beforehand. If you're planning to go abroad, consider receiving the MMR vaccine as early as six months for children, supplementing the regular vaccination schedule.

What You Should Do Next

Before heading to your travel destination, make sure all your vaccinations are up-to-date. Adults should check their vaccination history, and if you're unsure, consult a healthcare provider about getting vaccinated—it's better to be safe than sorry!

Lastly, if you develop symptoms upon returning from your trip, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about your recent travel and symptoms before visiting a clinic. This proactive step will help protect others while ensuring you receive appropriate care.

In conclusion, as more people commence their travels, understanding and taking steps against measles is critical. Stay informed, stay protected, and make your adventure a healthy one!