WA Health has issued a public health alert following a reported case of measles in a returned traveller from Afghanistan.
The latest case is being treated at a metropolitan hospital and visited various public spaces in the Perth metropolitan area, including the airport and various shops.
New exposure sites have been added to the Department of Health website, and anyone who was at these locations during the listed dates and times should stay alert for symptoms.
Communicable Disease Control Director, Dr Paul Armstrong, said measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications.
“Measles can spread quickly and even one case of measles can be cause for concern,” Dr Armstrong said.
“This is why is it so important for people to pay close attention to the exposure locations, and if symptoms are identified, call ahead to your GP clinic before attending.”
Early symptoms include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed by a florid red non-itchy rash three or four days later. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. People with measles usually feel very unwell.
Measles outbreaks are occurring in overseas countries, such as India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, and imported cases or small outbreaks occur in Australia as people are infected overseas.
Dr Armstrong urged community members to consider getting vaccinated against measles.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect against measles, and this is a reminder for the public to check they are immune and get vaccinated.”
Anyone who is concerned they (or a loved one) may have measles should seek medical care, including contacting Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
They should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to discuss their situation to prevent the chance of spreading the infection to others.
More information about measles is available on the HealthyWA website.
(ENDS)
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