Travelling overseas with an infant? Check measles vaccination before you go

Victorians travelling overseas with infants are being reminded to plan ahead and speak to a health professional about measles vaccination before they leave.

While Australia eliminated measles in 2014, cases can still occur when people are infected overseas and return while infectious.

Recent Victorian cases have been linked to international travel, including to destinations such as Indonesia, Vietnam, India and Pakistan, with measles activity also reported in other parts of the world.

In Australia, infants usually receive measles vaccine at 12 and 18 months.

However, infants aged from 6 months to under 12 months can receive an early measles vaccine before overseas travel.

Dr Linny Kimly Phuong, paediatric infectious diseases physician, said families should plan ahead before travelling.

“If you are travelling with a child who is under 12 months, over 6 months, please consider an early measles vaccine,” Dr Phuong said.

“Infants vaccinated before 11 months still need their routine doses at 12 and 18 months.”

Families should book a travel health appointment at least 6 to 8 weeks before travelling to check what vaccines they may need.

Dr Christian McGrath, Deputy Chief Health Officer, said parents and carers should also use this appointment to check their own measles vaccination status.

“While you’re protecting your kids, it’s really important to think about yourself too,” Dr McGrath said.

“Adults born between 1966 and 1992 may not have received two documented doses of measles vaccine.”

“Two doses provide the best protection, if you haven’t had two doses, or you don’t know, get vaccinated.”

The state-funded measles vaccine is available through vaccination providers, and no Medicare card is required.

If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or immunocompromised, speak to your GP, pharmacist or immunisation provider before travelling, as the measles vaccine may not be suitable for you.