Measles

Measles is appearing in the news almost weekly at the moment, with cases being reported around the country.

The disease is appearing in many parts of the world where for a number of reasons vaccination rates have fallen. This week Smart Traveller is advising of an outbreak in Brazil for example. This is not only the case in developing countries however but also in western countries and capital cities including New York, Paris and London.

It is mainly carried back to Australia by travellers so it is therefore vital that all travellers make sure they are fully vaccinated before they travel overseas, regardless of destination. The most likely group of travellers to transmit the illness are those born in Australia between 1966 and 1984. While it may cause severe illness in those age groups, the highest risk group is children under 12 months of age who cannot be vaccinated.

Make sure you and your family are protected prior to travel.