1.7 Million Australians Lack Measles Protection, Study Warns

A major study released August 17 found that 1.7 million Australians lack sufficient measles immunity, with nearly 7% of the population at risk. The National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance identified immunity gaps across multiple generations, particularly those born from the late 1970s onward. While Australia has maintained measles elimination status since 2014, researchers warn the margin for error is shrinking as childhood vaccination rates decline and imported cases rise.

Who is most vulnerable to measles

People born between 1966 and 2000 face the highest risk, according to lead author Zoe Crocker. Those born between 1977 and 1983 often received only one vaccine dose, while people born around 2000 and between 1993 and 1995 have documented immunity gaps. People aged 15 to 35 accounted for half of Australia’s measles cases between 2008 and 2022. Infants too young for routine vaccination and people aged 42 to 49 also show increased susceptibility.

Why immunity gaps matter now

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. The World Health Organization sets the target vaccination coverage at 93 to 95% to achieve herd immunity. Australia’s overall immunity rate stands at 93.3%, leaving little room for error. Childhood vaccination rates have declined since the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning immunity gaps are now likely wider than the 2019 estimate. Measles cases linked to overseas travel continue to rise, with national notifications jumping from single figures in 2022 to 181 in 2025 and 113 cases already recorded in 2026.

Global outbreaks threaten Australia’s status

Canada, Spain and the UK have all lost their WHO-certified measles elimination status during recent global outbreaks. Australia’s status is not guaranteed and must be actively maintained, researchers warn. Associate Professor Frank Beard noted that uneven immunity across Australian communities raises the risk of local outbreaks when measles is imported from overseas. The Pan American Health Organization has assessed public health risk across the Americas as very high amid a 2025 to 2026 resurgence.

What Australians should do now

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia urges anyone born in 1966 or later who is unsure of their vaccination history to check their status with a pharmacist, GP or immunisation provider. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine are needed for full protection. Community pharmacies can quickly check vaccination status and provide vaccinations often without an appointment. More than 6,100 community pharmacies operate across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote areas. Those planning overseas travel should prioritise verification, particularly parents with infants too young for full vaccination schedules.

Final Thoughts

With 1.7 million Australians unprotected and immunity gaps widening, Australia’s measles elimination status faces real risk. Checking vaccination status and completing the two-dose schedule are now critical steps for anyone born from 1966 onward.

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