Measles Cases Detected in Sydney and Gold Coast

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A measles alert has been issued in Sydney and the Gold Coast after confirmed cases were detected in travelers while returning from overseas.

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The highly infectious disease has prompted immediate action from health authorities in both New South Wales and Queensland.

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Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, followed after 3-4 days by a red, blotchy rash that starts on the head and face, then spreads to the rest of the body.

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While measles can affect anybody, it is most commonly spread among children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

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For anyone experiencing symptoms, health authorities stress the importance of informing ahead before visiting medical facilities to prevent potential spread.

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Health officials emphasize vaccination(MMR) as the primary defense vaccine which is available free in NSW for anyone born after 1965.

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The timing of symptom appearance is crucial as Dr. Smith notes. It can take up to 18 days after exposure for symptoms to develop, making February 5 a date for monitoring symptoms.

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