Travellers are being warned to ensure they are immune to measles following a large number of returned travellers to Australia getting measles, including one case in Darwin.
Across Australia, 23 people have been notified with measles so far this year.
Of these cases, 19 have been associated with travel to Asia including travel to Bali.
In recent days a person returning to Darwin from Bali has been diagnosed with measles and extensive contact tracing has been undertaken to identify those who have been in contact with the case. Nearly 300 contacts have been identified and will now be interviewed to assess their measles immune status and to provide management, for those not immune, as well to provide important information about the disease.
“Travellers and holidaymakers should check to make sure they are immune to measles, especially before travelling overseas,” Centre for Disease Control Director, Dr Vicki Krause said.
“If you were born after 1966, make sure you have had two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, most often given as the measles, mumps rubella (MMR) vaccine. Most people born in or before 1965 (those 48 years or older) would have been exposed to circulating measles and are likely to be immune. “
“Parents should also ensure their children are vaccinated on time. Children receive a measles containing vaccine at 12 months and 18 months.”
People returning from overseas, in particular from Bali,are advised to be alert for symptoms.
“Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that is easily spread among people through coughing and sneezing. It can also cause serious complications that may require hospitalisation.”
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, which usually occur 7 to 10 days after exposure, followed by a red blotchy rash two to four days later that starts on the face and then moves down the body.
“Infected people can potentially pass measles on to others several days before the rash develops and forfour days after it starts,” Dr Krause said.
“It is important to recognise the early symptoms and signs of measles to prevent further spread of this illness.”
People who might have measles should minimise contact with other people, not attend school or work and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
“When attending a GP clinic, people should phone ahead to advise that they may have measles so the clinic can make arrangements to minimise contact with other people.”
For further information visit nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/viral/measles
Media Contact: Dimitra Grehl 0427 596 954