The measles outbreak that began in Darwin in mid-February has increased to 27 cases following the confirmation of a further four cases this week.

Territorians are being reminded to get their free measles containing vaccine, known as the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, if they are not immune and to be aware of measles symptoms.

The majority of cases continue to be in adults.

“Adults aged between 23 and 53 are the highest risk group because a high proportion of people this age have only had one dose of the MMR vaccine,” said Dr Peter Markey, Head of Disease Surveillance at the Centre for Disease Control (CDC). 

“Everyone born after 1965 needs to make sure they have had two vaccinations. If you’re not sure then arrange to get a free one from your GP or local Community Care Centre.

“It’s easy to assume that measles is a harmless childhood disease, however it is very contagious and serious complications can develop.”

Up to one third of people infected with measles will experience a complication. Complications include ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and may require hospitalisation.

So far, nine people affected in this outbreak have been admitted to hospital.

“For the majority of cases, there is no direct link to previous cases and no recent overseas travel. That means that measles is being spread in public places around Darwin and Palmerston.

“All recent cases either live or work in the Palmerston area, but cases have travelled widely in the Darwin-Palmerston region and beyond while infectious, so there could be cases emerging throughout the Territory and interstate,” Dr Markey said.

Measles can be spread very easily in shopping centres, work places, waiting rooms and other communal areas. CDC has contacted more than 1100 people, who have been identified as having contact with reported cases.

“Babies under 12 months of age are also at risk because they may not have had their first vaccine, but vaccinated toddlers and school aged children are at low risk,” Dr Markey said.

“As part of the outbreak response it is now recommended that babies in Darwin and Palmerston and those who might be visiting this area, get vaccinated at nine months. They will still need to have their usual 12 month and 18 month measles vaccines.

“It is very common to catch measles while travelling overseas so all travellers need to ensure they are immune to measles before travelling. Measles is circulating widely throughout the world at the moment, including Europe.”  Dr Markey said.  

The symptoms of measles are fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, which usually occur 7-10 days after exposure to a case, followed a few days later by a red blotchy rash which often starts on the face and then becomes widespread over the body.  

“If you think you or someone you are caring for might have measles, make sure you call ahead to the medical practice, so that staff there can take the necessary precautions to avoid potential spread to others”.

For more information about measles visit https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/viral/measles

After hours GP clinics can be found using the link: https://www.ntafterhours.com.au