In an era where we’ve grown accustomed to hearing about various health alerts, it’s easy to become desensitised to the urgency of new warnings. However, it’s crucial to sit up and take notice when it comes to measles, a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease. Residents of Sydney and the Gold Coast are currently facing this reality, as health officials have issued an urgent measles alert for both areas.
The alarm was raised after travellers returning from overseas brought the disease back with them. In Sydney, a person who had travelled from Vietnam to Greater Western Sydney was confirmed to have contracted measles. Although they were not infectious during the flight, NSW Health has advised that anyone who visited Family Doctors Berala, which shares a location with Berala Pharmacy and 4 Cyte Pathology, on January 18 between 10am and 11:15am, should be vigilant for symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if they arise.
Similarly, Queensland Health sounded the alarm after a person visited the Gold Coast while unknowingly being infected with measles. This individual, who contracted the disease while abroad, travelled to the Gold Coast via Qantas flight QF596 from Sydney Domestic Airport on January 17, between 8:03pm and landing at 9:30pm. They also spent time at the Gold Coast Airport between 9:30pm and 10:15pm.
Measles is not a disease to be taken lightly. It starts with symptoms such as fever, sore eyes, a runny nose, and a cough. These initial signs are typically followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the head and face before spreading to the rest of the body. The incubation period for measles can be up to 18 days, meaning symptoms can take that long to appear after exposure. Dr Mitchell Smith, South Western Sydney Local Health District’s director of public health, emphasises the importance of monitoring for symptoms until February 5 if you were present at the mentioned locations.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s critical to call ahead before visiting your doctor to prevent the potential spread of the virus to others. Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, ear infections, and encephalitis—an inflammation of the brain.
The recent cases serve as a stark reminder for all Australians, particularly those born after 1965, to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine is a cornerstone of preventative health, and staying current with immunisations is particularly vital before travelling overseas. With measles outbreaks occurring in various regions around the world, the risk of exposure during international travel is heightened.
Measles can affect anyone, but it is most commonly seen in children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have contracted measles, it’s imperative to contact a GP as soon as possible.
With the measles alert in place, have you checked your vaccination status recently? Share your thoughts and any concerns in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.
Also read: Australia on alert as H5N1 avian influenza spreads globally