Measles cases are increasing globally, with increased risk of importation leading to outbreaks and local transmission within Victoria.
As we head into flu season, co-administration of MMR with influenza vaccination presents an ideal opportunity to help close Victoria’s measles immunity gap.
Vaccination offers the best protection against measles, and two doses of a measles‑containing vaccine are required for immunity. Adults, especially people born between 1966 and 1992, are likely to have only received a single childhood dose and therefore are at risk of measles infection, however, may not be aware of their susceptibility.
Health care providers can support measles vaccination by:
- Opportunistically assessing and offering free state-funded catch-up MMR vaccination to all adults born during or after 1966 who are missing two doses of a measles-containing vaccine or are unsure of immunity. It is safe to give another MMR vaccine if a person has lost their childhood vaccine record.
People presenting for flu vaccination present a timely opportunity to also check measles vaccination status and offer MMR to those eligible.
- Adding state-funded MMR vaccine to your next OneLink order
- Displaying promotional materials at your practice. Free poster printing and delivery is available to practices located within the NEPHU catchment by ordering here. This includes resources designed for First Nations people, and posters in 13 additional languages.
There is no need to check measles serology prior to vaccination. However the live-attenuated MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy or for individuals with severe immunocompromise.
This program complements the National Immunisation Program which offers free Commonwealth funded catch up MMR to people aged less than 20 years and refugees and humanitarian entrants of any age who are not fully immunised.
More information:
- Visit this NEPHU page
- Watch Response to measles outbreak: Adult measles immunisation program webinar, hosted by Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network. The slideset is also available.
- Read information sheet and FAQs for clinicians
- Email us at nephu@austin.org.au
Disclaimer: This article was provided by North Eastern Public Health Unit (NEPHU). While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
