A concerning decline in childhood vaccination rates in Australia may heighten the risk of measles outbreaks, according to infectious disease expert Professor James Wood from the University of New South Wales. Although the country currently enjoys a high level of immunity, Professor Wood warns that falling vaccination numbers could lead to smaller outbreaks in the coming years, particularly in regions with lower vaccination coverage.
Despite the World Health Organization declaring measles eliminated in Australia in 2014, the recent trend indicates a worldwide reduction in childhood vaccinations, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and persistent misinformation regarding vaccine safety. For example, only 83% of two-year-olds in certain areas, like Byron Bay in New South Wales, were fully vaccinated as of late 2024.
Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases globally, capable of crossing borders effortlessly. The vaccine, which involves two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, offers 97% protection, yet vaccination levels have declined since 2020. This is concerning as measles cases can arise from unvaccinated travellers, particularly in communities with high proportions of unvaccinated children.
An outbreak in the United States underscores this risk, where a recent surge of cases, particularly among unimmunised populations, resulted in fatalities, spotlighting ongoing vaccination challenges.
In Australia, the current low incidence of measles—typically fewer than 100 cases annually—may escalate if vaccination rates continue to decline. Professor Wood emphasises the importance of maintaining community immunity to protect vulnerable populations, particularly infants aged six to 12 months who are not yet vaccinated but remain at high risk for severe measles infections.
With the trend of diminishing vaccination rates continuing, there is apprehension that more young children will miss out on essential immunisations against measles, heightening the risks of future outbreaks and potential serious health complications associated with the disease. Symptoms of measles include a flu-like illness followed by a distinct red rash, but severe complications can arise, including pneumonia and encephalitis, which can be fatal. Therefore, the call for increased awareness and action to maintain vaccination rates has become more urgent as Australia navigates these emerging public health challenges.