Improving measles vaccination rates

Measles vaccination coverage of adults born after 1965 in Metro North is only 21.9%, well below what is required for herd immunity. For adults born between 1966 and 2000, rates are even lower, with the Australian Immunisation Register showing more than 9 out of 10 are not fully immunised against measles.  

This is particularly concerning given three recent imported cases in Brisbane and continuing outbreaks in many parts of the globe including South-East Asia, the UK, Sub-Saharan Africa and Eastern Europe.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles infection and transmission. Metro North Public Health Unit (MNPHU) advises that opportunistically discussing vaccination status, especially with travellers, is an important strategy to prevent measles cases in Brisbane. Adults born after 1965 who do not have two recorded doses of MMR vaccine are eligible for government funded vaccines. 

The MNPHU has developed three posters, these will be delivered to vaccine providers in the Metro North region. MNPHU asks medical practices for their support by displaying these to encourage patients to ask about vaccination.