Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that causes a skin rash and fever.
  • Measles can cause serious and potentially life-threating complications including pneumonia and encephalitis. 
  • Measles is rare in Australia because of widespread vaccination.
  • Vaccination is important because it prevents the measles virus from spreading in the community.
  • If you think you have measles, seek medical care. Call your doctor before attending a clinic and wear a mask to prevent spreading infection to other people.
  • People who have been exposed to measles and are not immune may be given preventive treatment.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 29-05-2023