Study warns 1.7 million Australians are vulnerable to measles risk
A new study has found that 1.7 million people in Australia lack sufficient immunity against measles. Health experts warn that declining vaccination rates are raising the risk of a wider outbreak.
A new study by Australian researchers has found that approximately 1.7 million people nationwide lack sufficient immunity against measles. Researchers said much of this group consists of adults who did not complete their full childhood vaccination schedule.
Health experts say the decline in vaccination rates observed in recent years is increasing the risk that the highly contagious measles virus could spread more widely again. Experts note the outbreak risk is particularly elevated in densely populated urban areas.
State health officials said vaccination campaigns will be strengthened and public health awareness efforts increased. Experts stress that the public health system needs to act quickly to close the immunity gap.
Read next
Australian minister won't commit to delaying NDIS exit if supports aren't ready
The minister responsible for Australia's National Disability Insurance Scheme, Jenny McAllister, would not say whether the government will delay participants' exit from the scheme if foundational supports are not ready, but insisted the government will not leave people in freefall.
Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to killing UnitedHealthcare CEO
New commissioner takes on task of reforming culture at Australia's Defence Force
Singapore orders transshipping firms to declare true country of origin of goods
