What should I do if I'm traveling overseas and might have been exposed to measles in WA?

If you develop measles symptoms, contact your GP immediately, call ahead to discuss your situation, and wear a mask to prevent spreading the infection.

Is the MMR vaccine free in Western Australia?

Yes, the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is free to all Western Australians.

What are the symptoms of measles that WA Health is warning about?

Symptoms include fever, fatigue, runny nose, red eyes, cough, and a prominent red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads.

Home / Health / Measles Alert: Two Cases Spark Holiday Travel Warning

Measles Alert: Two Cases Spark Holiday Travel Warning

12 Dec

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Summary

Two new measles cases, an adult traveler and a child, are raising alarms.
WA Health urges holiday travelers to verify measles vaccination status.
Measles is highly contagious but preventable through the free MMR vaccine.

Measles Alert: Two Cases Spark Holiday Travel Warning

Western Australia is reminding residents to ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles before embarking on overseas travel for the Christmas holidays. This advisory follows the notification of two recent measles cases, including a returned traveler from Vietnam and a young child who was a close contact. These cases bring the total in Western Australia for 2025 to 56.

Dr. Paul Armstrong stressed the ongoing risk of measles importation, particularly from popular Asian destinations. He highlighted that anyone not immune is susceptible and that measles can cause severe illness, often requiring hospitalization. The MMR vaccine, which is free for all Western Australians, is highly effective in preventing the disease.

Infants aged six months to under 12 months are also eligible for a complimentary MMR vaccine if traveling internationally to areas with high measles activity. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, runny nose, red eyes, and cough, followed by a characteristic rash. Those experiencing symptoms should contact their GP immediately, calling ahead and wearing a mask to prevent further spread.