Another measles case has been linked to the Pilbara.
Health authorities in Sydney have issued a measles alert after confirming a case of the disease involving an individual who was infectious while visiting several public locations earlier this month. The person had recently traveled to South East Asia, where measles outbreaks are currently active, according to NSW Health.
Locations and Precautions
The confirmed case was active in Sydney between December 3 and 8, 2023, and visited various sites, including sections of the Sydney Metro and the T4 train line from Macquarie University to Edgecliff, as well as the Gran Torino Restaurant in Double Bay and the Macquarie Centre Food Court at Macquarie Park. While these locations do not pose an ongoing risk, authorities are urging individuals who were present during that time frame to monitor for symptoms.
Dr. Michael Staff, Director of the Northern Sydney Local Health Public Health Unit, emphasized the contagious nature of measles. “Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” he stated. Symptoms typically include fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and a cough, followed by a red, blotchy rash.
Monitor Symptoms and Vaccination Recommendations
Dr. Staff noted that symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure, which means individuals who visited the listed locations should remain vigilant until December 27, 2023. Those who develop symptoms are encouraged to contact their general practitioner (GP) or an emergency department in advance to avoid potential exposure to others.
In addition to monitoring for symptoms, NSW Health has reminded the public about the importance of measles vaccination. Individuals born after 1965 should have received two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is available free of charge in New South Wales for eligible individuals and can prevent the disease even if administered shortly after exposure. For children as young as six months traveling overseas, an early dose is also recommended.
For further details on measles and vaccination, the government has provided a measles factsheet on their website. The public is also advised to reach out to their GP or call Healthdirect at 1800 022 222 if they experience any symptoms.
Additionally, it is worth noting that two recent cases of measles have been reported in Tasmania, prompting the local Department of Health to issue an urgent health warning.
