A third case of measles has been confirmed in greater Darwin, prompting a further warning for Territorians to be alert for this highly contagious disease and to get a vaccine if required.
“This third case has no identified connection with the first two cases, and the concern is there will be other cases in the community who are also yet to be diagnosed,” said Dr Peter Markey, Head of Surveillance at the Centre for Disease Control.
“Further cases are likely to emerge over the next three weeks.”
The first case attended Palmerston Medical Clinic on 12 February and Palmerston Regional Hospital on 15 and 17 of February. People exposed at that time who are not immune may have symptoms over the next few days.
The second case attended Top End Medical Centre in Stuart Park on Sunday 3 March and Tuesday 5 March and Palmerston Regional Hospital on 5 March. Those exposed at this time who are not immune may get symptoms starting from 10 March.
The third case attended the Top End Medical Centre in Rosebery on 1 March and 4 March and the Palmerston Regional Hospital on 4 March.
The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) is contacting people who may have had contact with these cases to provide information and offer preventive treatment or booster immunisation as appropriate.
“To be immune to measles you need to have had measles previously or have had two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, known as the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The vaccine is given as part of the routine national vaccination schedule at 12 months and at 18 months, but people born between 1966 and 1996 may have only had one dose as a child and should check their record. If uncertain, an extra vaccine is recommended,” Dr Markey said.
“It is reassuring that we have a well-vaccinated population, however this is a timely reminder for all people to review their immunisation status and attend their local community care centre or their GP for their free immunisation if required.”
Measles is a very contagious viral illness that is spread between people through coughing and sneezing. It can be caught in public places such as shopping centres and waiting rooms.
“It is very important to call the medical practice first if you think you might have measles, so that staff can take precautions to avoid you potentially spreading it to others,” Dr Markey said.
The symptoms of measles are fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, which usually occur 7-10 days after exposure, followed a few days later by a red blotchy rash which often starts on the face and then becomes widespread over the body.
Up to one third of people infected with measles will experience a complication. Complications are more common in young children and adults and include ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and may require hospitalisation.
For more information please visit the following website: https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/viral/measles
Media contact: Tess Nekrasov 0427 596 954