Health authorities are urging East
Gippsland residents to review their measles vaccination history following the identification of exposure sites in nearby Bass Coast
and Baw Baw regions.
Although the exposure sites – including Warragul, Rhyll, Kooweerup and San Remo – are outside East Gippsland, local health services say the situation highlights the need for strong community-wide protection.
Tim Owen, deputy director of the Gippsland Public Health Unit, told ABC Gippsland that Victoria is currently experiencing an increased risk of measles.
“We’re asking anyone who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms over the coming weeks,” he said.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, often beginning with cold-like symptoms such as fever and cough before developing a rash. Serious complications can include pneumonia and brain inflammation, particularly in babies and people with weakened immune systems.
Sale paediatrician Dr Jo McCubbin described measles as far more severe than many realise.
“Measles is extremely infectious and can be a very serious disease, especially for babies under six months,” she said.
Health professionals warn that many adults may be under-vaccinated without knowing it, particularly those born between 1966 and 1992, when only a single measles vaccine dose was routinely given.
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH) nurse immuniser Peta Bassett said adults unsure of their vaccination history should consider getting a top-up.
“If you don’t know whether you’ve had two doses, it’s safest to be vaccinated,” she said.
“There’s no harm in having an extra dose, and it offers strong protection against a virus that spreads very easily.”
GLCH provides measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations through its immunisation services, including catch-up doses for adults. Appointments are available across GLCH sites without the need for a referral.
Bassett added that East Gippsland generally has high vaccination rates.
“The issue isn’t reluctance — it’s that many people simply don’t realise they might be under-protected,” she said.
Residents experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or rash are advised to seek
medical advice and to call ahead before
attending a clinic.
