The Victorian Department of Health has recorded two new measles cases in returned overseas travellers, in addition to the case in a returned traveller alerted earlier this week.
The cases were infectious at multiple public premises between January 17 and 24, 2024.
Exposure sites
Bay City Auto Group (and associated construction site), Frankston - Wednesday, January 17, 6am to 3pm
Box Hill Action Indoor Sports, Box Hill - Wednesday, January 17, 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Bay City Auto Group (and associated construction site), Frankston - Thursday, January 18, 6am to 3pm
Bay City Auto Group (and associated construction site), Frankston - Friday, January 19, 6am to 3pm
Costco Wholesale, Ringwood - Monday, January 22, 5.30pm to 7.20pm
DFO South Wharf shopping centre and car park, South Wharf - Tuesday, January 23, 12pm to 12.45pm
Docklands Park Playground, Docklands - Tuesday, January 23, 12.15pm to 2.30pm
Collins Square Food Court, Docklands - Tuesday, January 23, 12.40pm to 1.40pm
Tram 48 to North Balwyn from Stop 1 Spencer St/Collins St to Stop 5 Elizabeth St/Collins St #5 - Tuesday, January 23, 1.10pm to 1.40pm
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne - Tuesday, January 23, 1.40pm to 3.35pm
Melbourne River Cruises 4pm departure, Berth 2, Federation Wharf, Melbourne - Tuesday, January 23, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Tram 70 to Waterfront City Docklands, from Stop 6 Russell St/Flinders St to Stop D6-Victoria Police Centre/Flinders St - Tuesday, January 23, 5.30pm to 6pm
DFO South Wharf car park, South Wharf - Tuesday, January 23, 5.40pm to 6.20pm
Monitor for onset of symptoms up to three weeks after potential exposure.
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads quickly with close contact, especially in those not fully vaccinated.
Young children and adults with weakened immune systems are the most at risk of serious illness.
Overseas travel remains a significant risk for anyone not fully vaccinated and vulnerable to the disease, with the current cases having returned from travel to Indonesia, India and Sri Lanka.
The illness usually begins with common cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, red eyes and a cough, followed by fever and a rash.
The rash usually begins three to four days after the first symptoms, generally starting on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.
Victoria’s acting chief health officer, Dr Christian McGrath, said people must monitor for symptoms of exposure.
“People can be administered an MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure to measles to prevent infection. Failing that, we recommend that people monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if any symptoms develop,” he said.
Dr McGrath also added that any overseas travel could lead to exposure to measles.
“Measles outbreaks have recently been reported across the globe, and anyone planning overseas travel should ensure they have received appropriate vaccinations, including an MMR vaccine, if they don’t have a history of two precious MMR vaccinations,” he said.
If you believe you have been at one of the exposure sites, it is crucial to seek medical care if you develop symptoms, wear a mask and call ahead to ensure you can be isolated from others.
More information about measles is available on the Better Health Channel.