Bass Coast Shire Council, together with the Victorian government, is offering free Measles Vaccine to residents born between 1966 and 1992, as well as those born overseas. With measles cases on the rise, people are being urged to ensure full protection by receiving two doses of the Measles Vaccine.
Health Officials Urge Residents To Check Vaccination Status
Bass Coast Shire Council is encouraging eligible residents to review their Measles Vaccine status following an increase in measles cases across Victoria and globally.
Health authorities say people born before 1966 are generally considered immune because measles circulated widely during their childhood. However, those born between 1966 and 1992 may not be fully protected because many received only one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine.
Residents born overseas also may not have received complete vaccination coverage depending on their country’s immunization programs.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others,” the council said in a media release. Officials warned that measles remains a highly infectious disease capable of causing serious illness and complications.
Public health experts recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine as the safest and most effective protection against infection and community spread.
Free Vaccination Program Expands Access Across Bass Coast
The council partnered with the Victorian government to provide free Measles Vaccine, with no proof of prior immunization required. Officials say the initiative removes barriers for residents unsure of their Measles Vaccine history.
Monthly public immunization sessions are available in Cowes, Grantville, Inverloch and Wonthaggi. Additional measles-specific clinics are scheduled from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at several locations.
Sessions include April eight at the Inverloch Community Hub, April 14 at Berninneit in Cowes, and April 23 at Wonthaggi Town Hall.
Bookings can be made through the council’s website, though health officials note that anyone uncertain about their vaccination status is encouraged to receive another dose.
“The vaccine is safe, effective and free,” council representatives said, emphasizing that receiving an extra dose poses no health risk for most individuals.
Rising Measles Cases Prompt Renewed Public Health Warning
Health authorities say the renewed vaccination push comes as measles cases increase in Victoria and internationally, raising concerns about outbreaks among under-vaccinated populations.
Measles spreads easily through coughing, sneezing and close contact, making communities vulnerable when vaccination rates decline. Symptoms can include fever, rash, cough and eye inflammation, and severe cases may lead to hospitalization.
Public health officials stress that maintaining high coverage of the Measles Vaccine protects vulnerable groups, including infants and people with weakened immune systems who cannot be vaccinated.
“This is why it is important to ensure that you and your family have had two doses of the measles-containing vaccine to prevent the spread and avoid serious illness,” the council said.
Authorities are urging residents to act promptly ahead of winter, when respiratory infections typically rise and transmission risks increase.
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