Health authorities in Far North Queensland have declared a public health alert following a confirmed case of measles in an infectious overseas traveller who visited multiple locations across Cairns.
The individual, who arrived from abroad, frequented several busy public venues while unknowingly contagious, putting an unknown number of residents and tourists at risk of contracting the highly viral disease.
Timeline of Exposure: Key Locations Identified
Queensland Health has released a detailed timeline of the infected person's movements in a bid to contact anyone who may have been exposed. The locations include popular shopping centres, medical facilities, and travel hubs frequented by locals and visitors alike.
Health officials are particularly concerned about exposures at the Cairns Domestic Airport and a local medical centre, where the risk of transmission to vulnerable individuals may be higher.
Urgent Search for Potential Contacts Underway
Public health teams are working tirelessly to identify and contact individuals who may have crossed paths with the infected traveller. Measles is exceptionally contagious, with the virus able to linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left a room.
"If you were at any of these locations at the specified times, you need to be vigilant for symptoms," a Queensland Health spokesperson stated. The advice is clear: be alert for signs of infection and seek medical advice immediately by phone before visiting a clinic in person.
Recognising the Symptoms: What to Look For
Measles is not just a simple rash. The initial symptoms often mimic a severe cold or flu. The public is urged to watch for:
- High fever, cough, runny nose, and sore, red eyes.
- A spreading red, blotchy rash that typically begins on the face and descends the body.
- Feeling generally unwell and fatigued.
The time from exposure to showing signs of illness can be up to 18 days, meaning heightened awareness is required for the next two weeks.
The Critical Importance of Vaccination
This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective and is part of the standard childhood immunisation schedule.
Authorities are urging anyone not fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine to consult their GP immediately. This is especially crucial for young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems who are most at risk of severe complications.
Queensland Health continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
