Victoria's Measles Cases Hit 17; Southeast Asia Travel Links

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A new measles case in Victoria's Cranbourne area has pushed the state's total to 17 cases since January 2024, out of which some have been linked to travel from South-East Asia.

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Vietnam battles a significant outbreak, reporting over 20,000 suspected cases and nearly 5,000 confirmed cases as of December 19, 2024.

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Measles spreads easily through air droplets which can stay in the environment for up to 2 hours, and through infected nasal or throat secretions.

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Early symptoms of measles mirror those of flu: fever, cough, runny nose, etc, following which a red rash appears on the face before spreading downward.

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The Department of Health has identified seven active exposure sites across Melbourne, including supermarkets, airports, and retail locations.

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Vaccination is crucial, hence, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is available free through the National Immunisation Program at 12 and 18 months of age.

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If symptoms develop, health officials stress the importance of calling ahead before visiting medical facilities and wearing a mask to prevent spread.

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The outbreak extends to New South Wales recently issuing its own measles alert, and noting active outbreaks in regions such as Thailand, Indonesia, India, Europe, UK, USA, etc.

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