Measles Outbreak Spreads in Western Australia with 47 Cases Detected This Year
Western Australia (WA) health authorities have issued a fresh warning about a measles outbreak that has now reached 47 confirmed cases so far this year. On Wednesday, officials reported eight new cases linked to an outbreak in the Pilbara region.
Measles is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease. Health experts warn that airborne droplets can still infect people entering a room up to 30 minutes after an infected person has left. Anyone who is not already immune and has visited an exposure location during specified dates and times should monitor themselves for symptoms over the next 7 to 18 days.
WA Health has identified several exposure sites across South Hedland, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Redbank. People who have received two doses of the measles vaccine or were born before 1966 are considered immune. However, unvaccinated individuals remain at risk of severe health complications, including death.
The disease poses particular dangers to children, pregnant women, and those who are immunocompromised. Early symptoms include fever, tiredness, runny nose, cough, sore red eyes, followed by a red blotchy rash appearing three to four days later. According to Dr. Armstrong, people with measles usually feel very unwell, with some requiring hospitalisation.
Complications from measles can be serious and include pneumonia and, less commonly, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Despite the recent cases, Dr Armstrong noted there is no ongoing risk of measles at the Pilbara locations currently.
Health authorities strongly recommend vaccination as the best protection against the disease.
Measles Cases Rising Across Australia and Globally
Measles cases are surging worldwide, with several Australian states also reporting infections. Last week, a health alert was issued for Sydney’s Northern Beaches after an infected person visited multiple locations in Dee Why and Manly.
In mid-September, Victoria Health announced a confirmed measles case in a traveller returning from Europe and Bali. Dr Caroline McElnay, Victoria Health’s Chief Health Officer, highlighted the ongoing risk of measles importation through international travellers.
Several outbreaks are currently active across South-East Asia — including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Recently, Queensland and Western Australia have reported cases in travellers returning from Bali.
What You Should Do
– Ensure you are vaccinated against measles with the recommended two-dose vaccine.
– If you have visited any of the exposure sites during the specified times, monitor yourself for symptoms for at least 18 days.
– Seek medical advice promptly if you experience symptoms suggestive of measles.
Protecting yourself and your community through vaccination and vigilance remains critical during this outbreak. Stay informed through official health channels for updates and advice.
https://thewest.com.au/lifestyle/wa-health-issues-urgent-warning-measles-outbreak-alert-after-47-cases-detected-c-20288857
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