The Department of Health has issued a health alert, urging the Western Australian community to be aware of a confirmed measles case in a returned traveller from Europe.
The person visited several public venues in the Perth metro area while infected, between the period of 6 August and 11 August. Exposure locations are listed in the health alert.
Director of the Communicable Disease Control, Dr Paul Armstrong, said contact tracing was underway to determine who had been exposed.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease and anyone who has been to the identified exposure locations and develops symptoms should isolate and seek medical advice,” Dr Armstrong said.
“Please wear a mask and call ahead before presenting at a clinic or emergency department, so staff can ensure you do not infect other patients and staff.”
Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed by a red non-itchy rash three or four days later. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Community members who have visited an exposure location during the times listed should be vigilant symptoms for 18 days after the potential exposure.
These locations may be updated, and people are encouraged to monitor the Department of Health website for updated advice.
“There is no ongoing risk of measles at these locations, but my advice to community members is to be vigilant and monitor for symptoms,” Dr Armstrong urged.
Due to high vaccination coverage, measles has been eliminated from Australia for more than 25 years. Imported cases or small outbreaks still occur at times, generally due to residents or visitors who get infected while overseas.
People who are concerned they may have measles and require medical advice can contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
For more information about the exposure locations related to this measles case and symptoms to monitor for, visit the measles health alert.