Measles Vaccination Advice for Australians Travelling Overseas
08 Jan 2026
Outbreaks of measles continue globally, and Australians travelling overseas may be at risk of infection. Popular destinations, including Bali and other parts of Indonesia, have reported periodic measles outbreaks.
Vaccination is the best protection against measles
- Measles vaccination is especially important for adults and children at higher risk, such as overseas travellers.
- The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) now recommends that infants aged 6–11 months receive an additional MMR vaccine dose before international travel.
Effectiveness of the MMR vaccine
- Two doses of MMR vaccine provide 99% protection against measles and serious complications.
- Most Australians receive these doses as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) at 12 and 18 months of age.
Who can access the vaccine for free under the NIP:
- Children at 12 and 18 months
- People under 20 years needing catch-up vaccinations
- Refugees and humanitarian entrants of any age
Some states and territories may fund additional groups, and the vaccine is also available privately.
Groups recommended for vaccination:
- Children aged 12 months and older
- Adolescents who have not received two doses
- People born in 1966 or later who have not received two doses
- Infants travelling overseas from 6 months of age, following individual risk assessment
Infants travelling overseas:
- If an infant aged 6–11 months receives an MMR dose before travel, two further doses are still required:
- Next dose at 12 months of age or 4 weeks after the first dose (whichever is later)
- Final dose as MMRV vaccine at 18 months of age
- If an early dose was given at 11–12 months, no repetition is needed.
Key takeaway:
Healthcare professionals should advise patients to review their measles vaccination status before travelling internationally and ensure infants and adults are appropriately protected.
Source: Australian Government Department of Health – “Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd – Measles vaccination advice,” 8 January 2026.
https://www.health.gov.au/news/chief-medical-officer-professor-michael-kidd-measles-vaccination-advice
For more information, consult ATAGI guidelines or speak with a health professional.