During the past month, health officials with Metro North Public Health Unit and school officials with the University of Queensland (UQ) have reported three measles cases in students at the St Lucia campus.

Image/CDC
Image/CDC

The university’s occupational health department are advising the university community to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.  UQ Occupational Health Nurse Advisor Fiona Coulthard said,  “Anyone born during or since 1966, who has not had two documented doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine or had proven measles, should visit their family doctor to get vaccinated for measles”.

“The vaccine is free for anyone who requires it. Vaccination now will not prevent infection from any possible exposure to the three UQ cases, but it will provide protection if there are more cases.

“If you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system, please contact your doctor for more specific advice. If you suspect that you may be developing measles, please stay away from the University and seek medical attention as soon as possible.”

She said anyone who suspected they had measles should notify their doctor of the possibility before arriving for their appointment.

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