Measles alert for Brisbane
Metro North Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in an adult male on Brisbane’s north side.
The man was unknowingly infectious from 13 March to 21 March while visiting the following locations:
- The Sportsman Hotel, Spring Hill – 8-10.30pm Fri 15 March
- Ferny Grove train line Mitchelton to Brisbane Central Station – 1.30pm Sat 16 March
- Fitness First Gymnasium, Elizabeth St, Brisbane – 4pm-5.30pm Sun 17 March
- Palace Cinemas, James St, Fortitude Valley – 8.30pm-11pm Mon 18 March
- Discount Drug Stores, Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley – 10.30am – 11.30 am Tues 19 March and 10.30am – 11.30am Thurs 21 March
Metro North Hospital and Health Service are warning people who were in those areas at the same time as the man to be wary of measles symptoms.
Measles is one of the most infectious of all communicable diseases and is spread by tiny droplets generated through coughing and sneezing.
Measles symptoms usually start around 10 days after contact, but can occur between seven and 18 days after contact with an infectious person.
The initial symptoms of measles include fever, lethargy, runny nose, moist cough and sore and red eyes. This is followed a few days later by a blotchy, red rash. The rash often starts on the face and neck, then becomes widespread over the body.
Two doses of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine provides high level protection against measles. These are usually given in childhood. Vaccinations are recommended for anyone born during or since 1966, who has not had two documented doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine or had proven measles. The MMR vaccine is funded and anyone requiring vaccination should arrange this through their GP.
Anyone who develops measles-like symptoms within the next week or two should stay home and contact their GP for advice.
When seeking treatment, it is important to call the medical practice first to say you could have measles, so that staff can take precautions to avoid spreading the disease to others.
Further advice is available by calling 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).