A measles outbreak has spread across multiple Australian states, prompting health authorities to issue urgent alerts and identify exposure sites in New South Wales (NSW), Queensland, and Western Australia. The outbreak is linked to international travel, with cases confirmed in individuals returning from Southeast Asia.
In NSW, health officials have identified several exposure sites, including Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (T2) on September 12, Virgin Australia flights VA572 (Perth to Sydney) and VA505 (Sydney to Gold Coast), and Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department on September 15. Individuals who were present at these locations during the specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
Queensland has also reported cases linked to the outbreak, particularly in Cairns and the Gold Coast. An infectious individual spent over eight hours in Cairns Hospital’s maternity ward, leading to a temporary mask mandate in high-risk areas. The outbreak is believed to stem from travelers returning from popular Southeast Asian destinations like Bali, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Health authorities are urging residents to ensure their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.
Western Australia has confirmed two new measles cases in Perth, bringing the total number of cases in the state this year to 35. The individuals had recently returned from Bali and visited several public venues while infectious. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and advise the public to monitor for symptoms.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that begins with a cough, fever, sore, red eyes, and a runny nose, followed by a red, spotty rash that usually starts on the face and spreads across the body. The disease can be prevented through vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which is widely available and free for eligible individuals.
Health authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant, verify their vaccination status, and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms or have concerns about potential exposure.
