An outbreak of measles linked to healthcare services in Far North Queensland, 2025

Abstract

In September 2025, Cairns experienced its largest measles outbreak since 1997. An imported case from Indonesia subsequently transmitted to 11 secondary cases, including four hospital staff. No further transmission was identified despite identification of nearly 1,500 contacts. Most of the cases (11/12; 91.6%) reported or demonstrated prior vaccination or immunity. This outbreak demonstrates the continued potential for re-emergence of measles in a setting with validated elimination status; the outbreak resulted in disruption to healthcare staff and services. Australian healthcare services should consider use of measles serology and booster vaccination doses among susceptible healthcare workers to reduce the risk of future similar outbreaks.