There is an increased risk of measles in Victoria. Local transmission has occurred in Melbourne among people with no recent overseas travel or known public exposure.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that causes flu-like symptoms, a skin rash and fever. Measles can cause serious and potentially life-threatening complications, including pneumonia (infection of the lung) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine are required for immunity.
If you are born during or after 1966 and have not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, or you are not sure about your immunisation status, get vaccinated.
Dhelkaya Health is running a free MMR vaccination clinic, which is open to the public – no booking required, just turn up during one of the sessions listed below. The MMR vaccine is also widely available at GPs, community pharmacies, Aboriginal Health Services and some local councils.
Please bring your Medicare card with you if you have one, but if you don’t have a Medicare card, you can still get a free state-funded MMR vaccine at our clinics.
If you think you have measles, seek medical care. Call your doctor before attending a clinic and wear a mask to prevent spreading infection to other people. People who have been exposed to measles and are not immune may be given preventive treatment.
Choose a date and venue and come along for this free vaccination program:
Castlemaine campus
Dhelkaya Health Auditorium
142 Cornish Street, Castlemaine
Wednesday 21 October and Wednesday 18 November 2:30 – 5:30 pm
Thursday 5 November and Thursday 3 December 2:30 – 5:30 pm
Maldon campus
Dhelkaya Health
1 Chapel Street North, Maldon
Thursday 29 October and Thursday 26 November 2:30 – 5:30 pm
Castlemaine Salvation Army
Kennedy Street, Castlemaine
Friday date and time TBC
