The Victorian Department of Health has issued a public warning about an increased risk of measles in Victoria and around the world, after new cases were confirmed to be infectious while visiting public places.
Health authorities said measles spreads very easily and can cause serious illness, hospitalisation and complications, especially in young children, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems.
Several public exposure sites have now been listed in Victoria. Anyone who visited these locations at the specified dates and times may have been exposed to the virus.
The Department of Health has advised people who may have been exposed to:
* Monitor for symptoms for up to 18 days after their visit. Early signs include fever, cough, runny nose, red or sore eyes and general tiredness, followed by a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads down the body.
* Seek medical care and testing immediately if symptoms appear. People are asked to call the health service before visiting, inform staff about possible measles exposure, and wear a face mask.
* Check their vaccination status. Those who have not received two doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, or are unsure, should contact their GP. Preventive treatment is most effective when given within 72 hours of exposure with the MMR vaccine, or up to six days with immunoglobulin for high-risk groups such as infants, pregnant women and immunocompromised people.
Health officials are urging the public to stay alert and ensure their vaccinations are up to date to help prevent the spread of measles.
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/health-alerts/measles-public-exposure-sites-victoria
