Measles Outbreak in Victoria: What You Need to Know | February 2026 Update (2026)

A concerning rise in measles cases has emerged in Victoria, prompting public health officials to take action. As of February 3, 2026, three additional cases of measles have been confirmed this week, bringing the total to five cases reported in the state throughout January 2026. All these infections have been traced back to travel in Southeast and South Asia.

For those who may have visited public exposure sites linked to these recent cases, it is crucial to be aware that monitoring for symptoms is recommended for up to 18 days following the exposure. The Victorian Department of Health has provided specific guidelines to follow for anyone who attended these locations during the identified dates and times.

There remains an ongoing concern regarding the potential importation of measles by travelers returning from abroad or moving between states. Individuals who are unvaccinated face a notably higher risk of contracting the disease. This situation raises questions about vaccination rates and public health awareness among the population.

Subscribers to Pharmacy Daily received this information as part of the publication's issue dated February 3, 2026. For further details, you can view the complete newsletter either through the embedded issue below or by clicking here to download the Pharmacy Daily edition from that date (https://issues.pharmacydaily.com.au/2026/Feb26/pd030226.pdf).

In other news:

  • Sandoz expands biosimilar access - On February 3, 2026, Sandoz announced the addition of the first aflibercept biosimilar, AFQLIR, to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), enhancing treatment options for Australians affected by various eye-related conditions.

  • World-first cancer research centre - The Cancer Council NSW has partnered with the University of NSW (UNSW) to establish a groundbreaking cancer survivorship center with a $40 million investment over a decade, launching this Thursday.

  • GHB taking a bigger toll - Shocking findings from a pioneering study by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) at UNSW Sydney reveal that GHB-related deaths have surged tenfold since 2013, while hospital admissions related to this substance have more than tripled.

Measles Outbreak in Victoria: What You Need to Know | February 2026 Update (2026)
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