Measles Surge in New South Wales Linked to Southeast Asia Travel

Sydney, Australia – A recent increase in measles cases in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, is primarily attributed to infections acquired during travel to Southeast Asia, according to health authorities. The surge underscores the importance of vaccination, particularly as school holidays approach and international travel increases.

Measles Cases in NSW: A Rising Trend

Between January 1, 2025 and March 7, 2026, NSW Health was notified of 60 confirmed measles cases . Of these, 34 cases were acquired overseas, with the vast majority – 32 – linked to travel to countries in Southeast Asia . The remaining two overseas-acquired cases were contracted outside of Southeast Asia.

Locally acquired cases also contribute to the overall increase, with 18 linked to known overseas cases and 8 with no identified source of infection .

Age Groups Affected

The majority of measles cases – three-quarters – have been diagnosed in individuals aged 20 years and over. Cases in children remain relatively low, with only 8 notifications in children under 9 years of age .

Measles in Australia: Maintaining Elimination Status

Australia was declared measles-free in 2014 and continues to maintain this status thanks to high vaccination rates. Yet, the virus remains prevalent in many regions globally, including Southeast Asia . Dr. Vicky Sheppeard, Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, emphasized that while local spread can occur, most cases originate from international travel .

The Importance of Vaccination

Measles is a highly contagious disease, with nine out of ten susceptible individuals exposed to the virus developing the illness. It spreads easily through coughing and sneezing . Fortunately, measles is vaccine preventable. Two doses of the measles vaccine, administered at least four weeks apart, provide long-term protection in 99% of vaccinated individuals .

Australia’s two-year-old vaccination rate currently stands at 91.2%, slightly below the 92-94% national coverage target needed to achieve herd immunity .

Recent Case Numbers

As of March 12, 2026, NSW has reported 25 confirmed measles cases, compared to 37 cases for all of 2025 and 18 cases in 2024 . Neighboring Victoria has also seen an increase, with 21 cases in 2026, compared to 36 in 2025 and 17 in 2024 .

Health authorities are urging travelers, especially those planning trips during school holidays, to ensure they are adequately vaccinated against measles.