Measles Outbreak: A Growing Concern
As of December 13, 2025, we are facing an active measles alert in WA. With 57 cases reported so far this year, it's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Measles, a highly contagious disease, typically develops within 10 days of exposure, but it can vary from 7 to 18 days. The virus spreads through airborne droplets, meaning a simple visit to a waiting room could put you at risk. Imagine, even 30 minutes after an infected person leaves a room, the droplets can still be infectious!
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Measles presents with a range of symptoms. You might experience fever, tiredness, a runny nose, and a persistent cough. But the tell-tale sign is a sore, red rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. This rash can last up to a week and is often accompanied by red, blotchy skin. Those with measles often feel extremely unwell, and in some cases, hospitalization may be required. Complications like pneumonia and, less commonly, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) can occur.
Vaccination: Your Best Defense
Here's an interesting fact: even vaccinated individuals can still contract measles, but the infection is usually milder and shorter-lived. However, it's important to note that people with measles are contagious from a day before their symptoms start until four days after the rash appears. This means you could be spreading the virus without even knowing it!
Exposure Locations: A Potential Risk
If you've visited any of the locations listed below during the specified dates and times, you should monitor yourself for symptoms for up to 18 days. This is especially crucial for those who are not immune to measles. Remember, anyone born after 1965 and not vaccinated with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine is considered at risk. Vaccination records are key here, so make sure you have documented proof.
New Exposure Locations
- Perth International Airport, Terminal 1 - Horrie Miller Drive, Perth Airport WA 6105 (5:42 pm to 7:15 pm on 09/12/2025)
- Emirates Flight EK420, Dubai to Perth (3:00 am to 5:42 pm on 09/12/2025)
- Terry White Chemist Eaton Fair - Shop 81, Eaton Fair Shopping Centre, Eaton, WA 6232 (9:00 am to 9:45 am on 08/12/2025)
- Flow 36 Café - Unit 14/31 Holman Street, Bunbury Waterfront, WA 6230 (10:45 am to 11:30 am on 06/12/2025)
- Bunbury Markets, Queens Gardens - Bunbury, WA 6230 (10:00 am to 11:00 am on 06/12/2025)
- Kmart Eaton Fair - Shop 67/2 Recreation Drive, Eaton, WA 6232 (11:15 am to 12:20 pm on 02/12/2025)
Who's at Risk?
Overseas travelers and anyone who has been to these locations are at risk if they're not immune to measles. Immunocompromised individuals, young children, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable and may experience severe illness if infected.
What to Do If You Develop Symptoms
If you experience any symptoms of measles, it's important to take immediate action. Put on a mask, isolate yourself, and seek medical care for testing. Before visiting a clinic or emergency department, call ahead to inform them about the potential measles infection. This allows them to prepare and ensure proper isolation measures to prevent further spread.
Prevention is Key: Vaccination
Staying up to date with your vaccinations is crucial. If you were born after 1965, ensure you've received two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine. Many countries are currently experiencing measles outbreaks, so if you're planning overseas travel, consult your doctor or a travel health specialist for appropriate vaccinations.
Information for Health Professionals
Health professionals, keep an eye out for measles, especially in returned overseas travelers. Always suspect measles in patients presenting with a febrile rash. When assessing patients with acute illness, ask about recent travel, contact with known measles cases, or attendance at exposure sites. If you suspect measles, provide a mask and isolate the patient immediately. Consider testing patients with fever and rash for measles, and mark the request form as urgent. Notify your local Public Health Unit or the on-call public health physician immediately if you suspect a case. Ensure travelers are up to date with all vaccinations, and remember, MMR vaccines are available to susceptible individuals, regardless of Medicare eligibility.
Stay informed, stay safe, and let's work together to control this measles outbreak!
