The Metro North Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in an adult male on Brisbane’s north side, according to a Metro North Hospital and Health Service Facebook page post.
The man is believed to have contracted measles while travelling overseas. He was infectious from 16 December to 25 December whilst visiting the following locations:
• Felons Brewing Co at 5 Boundary Street Brisbane City (under the Storey Bridge) on Sunday 16 December from around 5pm until midnight
• Oxford Street Bulimba, including Oxford 152, around lunchtime on Wednesday 19 December
• Eatons Hill Shopping Centre, including Woolworths, from around 4pm to 5.30pm on Thursday 20 December
• The Prince Charles Hospital Emergency Department on Wednesday 19 December from 7.30pm to midnight and Friday 21 December from 5pm to 9pm
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.
Travel health topics with Dr. Duellyn Pandis
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.
