Adult measles vaccination program

The number of measles cases in WA had been increasing, with 36 reported in 2018 – the highest figure since 2014 when 44 measles cases were confirmed. Of the 36 infections, nearly three-quarters (73%) occurred among people aged 20 to 49 years of age.

The program addresses an important gap in the community's protection against measles. People born before 1966 are usually immune to measles due to having the illness as a child and people 19 years of age and younger are already eligible for free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination through the National Immunisation Program.

Adults born after 1965 who have not already received two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine should receive the vaccine. Particularly those who are:

• planning to travel overseas – naturally occurring measles has been eliminated from WA for approximately 20 years but occasional cases and small outbreaks still occur, usually associated with tourists or WA residents who are infected overseas. Measles is common in many overseas countries and cases have been increasing worldwide, so it is particularly important for people to receive the vaccine before travelling overseas as they are at increased risk of infection.
• planning to get pregnant – pregnant women and their babies are at increased risk of complications from measles infection such as miscarriage, early labour and stillbirth. To protect themselves and their baby, women should get vaccinated against measles at least 4 weeks before trying to get pregnant.

Serology is not recommended for people who are not sure if they have had two doses of measles vaccine. Instead, it is recommended that they receive 2 doses of MMR vaccine, at least a month apart. In the event serology is conducted and if a third dose is required, it will be funded by WA Health.

This is a live vaccine, so please adhere to the principles of administering a live vaccine e.g. do not administer to certain groups, such as those with lowered immunity, or pregnant women. See table from the Australian Immunisation Handbook (external site).

For immunocompetent individuals, the MMR vaccine can be administered at the same time as other vaccines such as the influenza vaccine or routine vaccinations.

All vaccinations, including for this program, should be recorded on your clinic records and also on the Australian Immunisation Register.

Eligible adults can receive this vaccine from their Community Pharmacist, GP, Aboriginal Medical Service, travel clinic or community health immunisation clinics.

The service search can be used to find immunisation locations.

The vaccine is provided for free through the State-funded adult measles vaccination program.