Measles Cases Rising in Melbourne: Is Your Family Protected?

Melbourne is currently experiencing an increase in measles cases, with health authorities warning of ongoing community transmission and exposure sites across metropolitan Melbourne. The Victorian Department of Health has advised that there is an increased risk of measles in Victoria, particularly in Melbourne, with local transmission occurring among people with no recent overseas travel or known exposure.

The rise in cases comes at a time when vaccination rates are declining. Across Australia, childhood vaccination coverage has fallen below the 95% level needed to maintain strong community protection, with coverage for two-year-olds sitting at around 90%.

Nationally, Australia recorded 181 measles cases in 2025, compared with just 57 cases in 2024. More than 100 cases have already been reported by May 2026, highlighting a concerning upward trend.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world and can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, hospitalisation and, in rare cases, brain inflammation. The good news is that it is highly preventable. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine provide excellent protection against infection.

Time to book an appointment

If you are unsure whether you or your children are fully vaccinated, now is the time to check. Contact Seaview Family Medical Centre today to review your immunisation status or book an appointment for an MMR vaccination. By staying up to date with vaccinations, we can help protect ourselves, our families and our wider community from preventable disease.