WA Health is advising people who attended Perth Airport on Friday, 6 June to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case in an overseas traveller.
The person was infectious on an international flight from London to Perth and a domestic flight from Perth to Brisbane.
- Qantas flight QF10 – departed London (Heathrow) at 11:55am (local time) and arrived at Perth International Airport (T3) on Friday, 6 June at 11:40am
- Perth Airport (Qantas terminals T3/T4) – from 11:40am to 1:35pm Friday, 6 June.
- Qantas flight QF938 – departed Perth Domestic Airport (T4) at 1:05pm and arrived in Brisbane at 7:10pm.
The Department's Acting Director of Communicable Diseases Dr Rebecca Hogan said while these locations pose no ongoing risks, people who were on the flights or at Perth Airport (T3/T4) at those times should be on the lookout for symptoms.
Symptoms of measles include fever, fatigue, runny nose, red eyes as well as a cough, which is followed several days later by a prominent red rash. The rash usually starts on the face and head before spreading to the rest of the body.
Symptoms typically develop around 10 days after being exposed to the virus, but this can vary from seven to 18 days.
“This is a timely reminder to the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations, particularly if they are planning overseas travel,” Dr Hogan said.
“Babies can also have their first dose of the MMR vaccine from six months of age if they are travelling to a country with high levels of measles activity.
“We are fortunate to have the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine which is extremely effective and free for all Western Australians.”
Anyone who is not immune is at risk of developing measles if they are exposed.
People who are unsure whether they are fully protected against measles or are planning to travel overseas should see their GP or a travel doctor to discuss vaccinations.
Anyone who is concerned they (or a loved one) may have measles should seek medical care. They should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to discuss their situation to prevent the chance of spreading the infection to others.
They can also contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
More information about measles is available on HealthyWA.
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Additional information about immunisation
Immunisation history statements can be accessed through a Medicare online account, or My Health Record, linked to myGov.
Those born from 1996 should have their immunisations recorded online, while those aged 30 years or older may need to check their childhood immunisation record cards or with their doctor for a complete immunisation history.
People born between 1966 and 1993 who do not have evidence of having received two doses can access a government-funded measles vaccine from their GP or at a participating community pharmacy. A vaccine administration fee may apply.
Babies who receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine from six months of age due to overseas travel will still need to receive two further doses of vaccine after 12 months of age.
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Media contact:
WA Health Media
T: (08) 9222 4333
E: media@health.wa.gov.au