Are you at risk? Infected traveller triggers urgent highly contagious disease alert
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A health alert has been issued after a recent traveller was diagnosed with a disease many thought was left in the past.
The individual visited multiple healthcare facilities while contagious, prompting concerns over potential exposure. Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant for symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.
This incident highlights the importance of vaccination and swift response to infectious diseases to prevent outbreaks. Stay informed and ensure your immunisations are up to date to protect yourself and the community.
Residents in Perth’s eastern suburbs are being advised to watch for measles symptoms after a traveller returning from South East Asia tested positive.
The individual arrived in Perth on a Jetstar flight on November 30 and visited various public places in the Armadale area until December 6.
Locations visited include the emergency department at Armadale Health Service, a GP clinic, and two local pharmacies.
This alert is a stark reminder that despite our best efforts, infectious diseases can cross borders with ease, especially in our interconnected world where international travel is common.
Measles, a highly contagious virus that once caused widespread illness, has been largely eliminated in Australia for over a quarter of a century thanks to high vaccination rates.
However, the risk remains through imported cases from travellers or small outbreaks.
The early symptoms of measles can be easily mistaken for a common cold or flu. They include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes.
These symptoms are followed by a red, non-itchy rash that typically starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body over three to four days.
Dr Paul Armstrong, Director of Communicable Disease Control, has urged those who may have been at the exposure sites during the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for 18 days for symptoms.
‘I urge anyone who has visited an exposure location during the dates and times listed to monitor for symptoms, and if symptoms develop, wear a mask and seek medical care,’ he advised.
‘Call ahead before presenting at a clinic or emergency department so staff can ensure you do not infect other patients and staff.’
The WA Health Department's proactive approach in issuing this alert is commendable, as it demonstrates the ongoing vigilance required to maintain public health.
With the fifth case of measles reported in WA for 2024, out of 50 cases nationwide, it's a timely reminder of the importance of vaccination and awareness.
For those concerned about potential exposure, WA Health has provided a full list of the sites visited by the infected traveller, along with more detailed information on symptoms to watch for.
It's essential for community members to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by health authorities.
The recent measles case in Perth’s eastern suburbs is part of a worrying trend of measles outbreaks in Australia this year.
Several cases have been reported, including exposures at supermarkets, Melbourne Airport, and other public places, highlighting significant vaccination gaps.
These incidents underline the importance of being vigilant and ensuring vaccinations are up to date to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Have you or someone you know been affected by the recent measles alert? What is your advice to prevent contracting the disease? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below, and let's continue to support each other through informed discussion and collective action.
The individual visited multiple healthcare facilities while contagious, prompting concerns over potential exposure. Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant for symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.
This incident highlights the importance of vaccination and swift response to infectious diseases to prevent outbreaks. Stay informed and ensure your immunisations are up to date to protect yourself and the community.
Residents in Perth’s eastern suburbs are being advised to watch for measles symptoms after a traveller returning from South East Asia tested positive.
The individual arrived in Perth on a Jetstar flight on November 30 and visited various public places in the Armadale area until December 6.
Locations visited include the emergency department at Armadale Health Service, a GP clinic, and two local pharmacies.
Perth’s eastern suburbs residents were advised to watch for measles symptoms after a traveller from Southeast Asia tested positive. Credit: CDC / Unsplash
This alert is a stark reminder that despite our best efforts, infectious diseases can cross borders with ease, especially in our interconnected world where international travel is common.
Measles, a highly contagious virus that once caused widespread illness, has been largely eliminated in Australia for over a quarter of a century thanks to high vaccination rates.
However, the risk remains through imported cases from travellers or small outbreaks.
The early symptoms of measles can be easily mistaken for a common cold or flu. They include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes.
These symptoms are followed by a red, non-itchy rash that typically starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body over three to four days.
Dr Paul Armstrong, Director of Communicable Disease Control, has urged those who may have been at the exposure sites during the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for 18 days for symptoms.
‘I urge anyone who has visited an exposure location during the dates and times listed to monitor for symptoms, and if symptoms develop, wear a mask and seek medical care,’ he advised.
‘Call ahead before presenting at a clinic or emergency department so staff can ensure you do not infect other patients and staff.’
The WA Health Department's proactive approach in issuing this alert is commendable, as it demonstrates the ongoing vigilance required to maintain public health.
With the fifth case of measles reported in WA for 2024, out of 50 cases nationwide, it's a timely reminder of the importance of vaccination and awareness.
For those concerned about potential exposure, WA Health has provided a full list of the sites visited by the infected traveller, along with more detailed information on symptoms to watch for.
It's essential for community members to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by health authorities.
The recent measles case in Perth’s eastern suburbs is part of a worrying trend of measles outbreaks in Australia this year.
Several cases have been reported, including exposures at supermarkets, Melbourne Airport, and other public places, highlighting significant vaccination gaps.
These incidents underline the importance of being vigilant and ensuring vaccinations are up to date to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
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