Measles, being an extremely contagious viral disease, also spreads with the increased travel this summer between countries. South Korea has also seen 40 percent more measles cases this year — 65 as of July 5 — than it had by the same time last year, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said. Seven in 10 patients had history of foreign travel and have been largely known to have visited the following countries, Vietnam, Thailand, Italy, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia in popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia.

In addition to the surge in cases in the Eastern Mediterranean, measles outbreaks are also accelerating in Southeast Asia, where countries such as Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam have seen significant increases. Travellers — particularly those who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated — may be at increased risk of coming into contact with the virus when visiting these areas, the KDCA also said, placing them at increased risk of bringing the disease back to their home country.

What is Measles?

Measles is a viral respiratory illness caused by the measles morbillivirus. The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or even by breathing the same air. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with over 90% of susceptible individuals contracting the virus after exposure.

Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and begin with fever, a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). This is followed by a distinctive red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. A hallmark sign of measles is the appearance of small white spots inside the mouth.

Severe complications can arise from measles, including pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, and in rare cases, encephalitis or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which can be fatal. With travel on the rise, it’s essential for global travelers to stay informed and prepared, as even brief visits to outbreak regions can expose them to the virus.

The Growing Global Measles Threat

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles remains a significant global health threat. Approximately 360,000 cases were reported worldwide in 2024, with outbreaks particularly prevalent in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. In the Western Pacific region, countries like Mongolia, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia reported notably high incidences of the disease in 2025.

For instance, Cambodia reported 1,097 measles cases, while Laos had 288, and Malaysia recorded 336 cases. This resurgence of measles is partly due to declining global vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving gaps in immunity. As international travel rebounds, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated travelers are more vulnerable to contracting and spreading the virus, sparking secondary outbreaks.

Who is Most at Risk?

Of the 65 cases that were acquired in South Korea, adults accounted for the highest proportion — 76.9 percent — while more than half (55.4 percent) either had not been vaccinated or did not remember their vaccination history. Babies under 12 months, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly immuno-suppressed and also should not travel if at all avoidable in the region, where measles can have serious consequences.

If you’re traveling to a place where there are outbreaks of measles, be sure to get news about the risks and take the appropriate precautions. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself.

How to Prevent Measles While Traveling

Measles is preventable with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The vaccine is typically given in two doses—one at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. For infants under 12 months who are traveling to high-risk areas, the KDCA recommends an accelerated vaccination between 6 to 11 months of age.

If your vaccination history is uncertain or incomplete, it is recommended to get the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before traveling. This ensures that you are fully protected against the disease, reducing the risk of exposure and transmission.

In addition to vaccination, travelers can protect themselves by practicing good hygiene. This includes frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and wearing masks in crowded public areas. If you develop symptoms such as fever, rash, or respiratory issues within three weeks of returning from an outbreak region, seek medical attention immediately. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your travel history, especially if you suspect measles.

Public Health Recommendations for Travelers

Medical institutions have been advised to report any suspected cases of measles to local public health centers promptly. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the virus and protect other travelers.

KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mi emphasized the importance of being prepared for travel, stating, “Please make sure your measles immunizations are up to date before you go abroad. And if you suspect any symptoms after travel, protect others by visiting a medical facility promptly with a mask on.”

Travelers should also consider checking with their healthcare provider for updated travel health recommendations, especially when planning trips to Southeast Asia or regions with high measles activity.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Plan Ahead

And with summer travel in high gear, the risk of getting the measles in outbreak hot zones will increase. As the world continues to rebound from the pandemic, vaccination rates have lagged behind, so it’s more important than ever to make sure you and your loved ones are protected when you travel overseas. You don’t have to worry about catching measles if you’re current on your vaccinations and practice good hygiene while traveling.

Preparation and awareness are key, whether you’re traveling to Southeast Asia, Europe or a hot vacation destination this winter. Remember to be safe and that is also applies to health and make sure you and everybody around you is safe as you experience the world.