SINGAPORE, July 31 — Singapore has recorded 40 measles cases so far this year, the highest annual total since 2020, prompting health authorities to step up monitoring as infections rise globally.

But experts say there is no need for alarm, with Singapore’s high vaccination coverage keeping the risk of a large outbreak low, news outlet CNA reported today.

Here is what you need to know:

How many measles cases has Singapore recorded?

Singapore has reported 40 measles cases in the first seven months of 2026, already exceeding the 27 cases recorded throughout 2025.

The latest figure is the highest since 2020, but remains below the 152 cases reported in 2019 during a period of widespread global outbreaks.

Why are cases increasing?

Health experts said the rise is mainly linked to a global resurgence of measles, with more infections being brought into Singapore through international travel.

Among 12 cases recorded between April 4 and July 4, nine were linked to recent overseas travel while two were locally acquired, according to the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA).

Singapore’s status as a major travel hub means sporadic imported cases are expected, CDA said.

Who is getting infected?

Adults aged 25 to 44 made up the largest group of cases this year.

Most infections involved people who were either unvaccinated or had no documented vaccination history.

Three cases involved people who had received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Can vaccinated people still get measles?

Yes, but such cases are uncommon.

The MMR vaccine is about 97 per cent effective after two doses, and vaccinated people who become infected generally experience milder symptoms and fewer complications.

Professor Paul Tambyah, past president of the Asia Pacific Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infection, said rare breakthrough infections could be linked to factors such as underlying medical conditions or vaccine handling.

Should Singaporeans be worried?

Experts say the risk of a major outbreak remains low because of Singapore’s high immunity levels.

“While sporadic local transmission will happen, the risk of large sustained outbreaks of measles here in Singapore is very negligible,” said Professor Hsu Li Yang, director of the Asia Centre for Health Security at the National University of Singapore’s Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health.

The Ministry of Health said 97 per cent of children are vaccinated by age seven, while 99 per cent of adults have immunity against measles.

Both figures are above the 95 per cent threshold generally needed to prevent widespread transmission.

What is Singapore doing?

CDA introduced tighter measures in February, including mandatory isolation for measles cases, contact tracing for all cases and quarantine for some close contacts.

The measures were further strengthened after more infections were detected, including preventing suspected measles cases in high-risk settings from returning to school or work until they test negative.

What should you do?

CDA advised older children and adults, especially those travelling to countries experiencing measles outbreaks, to ensure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine.

Those unsure of their vaccination status should consult a doctor.

People without vaccination records may also consider a blood test to check their immunity or receive a booster, experts said.

“We should not be alarmed by the numbers but should think of it as a reminder to get our children vaccinated if not already done and if measles vaccination is not contraindicated,” Hsu said.