Tejal Somvanshi
A measles alert has been issued in Sydney and the Gold Coast after confirmed cases were detected in travelers returning from overseas. The highly infectious disease has prompted immediate action from health authorities in both New South Wales and Queensland.
One case involves a person who returned to Western Sydney from Vietnam, where a measles outbreak is currently active. NSW Health confirms the individual visited Family Doctors Berala on January 18 between 10 AM and 11:15 AM. While this person wasn’t infectious during their flight, health officials are monitoring the situation closely.
In another incident, Queensland Health reported a case on the Gold Coast. This infected person traveled on Qantas flight QF596 from Sydney, arriving at Gold Coast Airport at 9:30 PM on January 17, and remained at the airport until 10:15 PM.
“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that starts on the head and face, then spreads to the rest of the body,” explains Dr. Mitchell Smith, Director of Public Health at South Western Sydney Local Health District.
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The timing of symptom appearance is crucial. Dr. Smith notes that it can take up to 18 days after exposure for symptoms to develop, making February 5 a key date for monitoring potential cases from these exposures.
Recent data shows that Victoria has reported 20 measles cases among Victorian residents in the 12 months to January 20, while South Australia recently identified a case in a toddler on January 18.
Health officials emphasize vaccination as the primary defense. The Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine is available free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t received two doses. This is particularly important for international travelers, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions worldwide.
The disease spreads through airborne droplets from coughing and sneezing, making it highly contagious. While measles can affect anybody, it is most commonly spread among children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.
For anyone experiencing symptoms, health authorities stress the importance of calling ahead before visiting medical facilities to prevent potential spread. The current situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and proper vaccination coverage in preventing the spread of this serious illness.
