Are you at risk? Infection spikes after a contagious traveller visits multiple locations
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In a concerning development for public health, Australians are being urged to stay alert following reports that a highly infectious traveller has returned from overseas and visited several locations across the country.
The traveller, who recently returned from Asia, has been confirmed to have measles, prompting New South Wales (NSW) Health to issue an urgent health alert for multiple areas in the state.
The individual infected promptly returned to Murwillumbah upon their return from overseas travel.
This case has raised alarms due to the highly contagious nature of measles, which can be easily spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The alert specifically advised primary and secondary students who used the Singh Company school bus on February 5, as well as residents who visited Murwillumbah Hospital between specific hours on Friday and Saturday, to be vigilant for symptoms.
These symptoms can include a runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks, followed by the characteristic rash that starts on the head and spreads to the rest of the body.
Measles is not to be taken lightly as it could lead to severe complications and even death. While anyone can be infected, children are the most vulnerable.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, especially for those with weakened immune systems. It is characterised by a red rash that spreads across the body.
Despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine since 1963, measles remains a significant global health threat.
According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 128,000 people died from measles globally in 2021.
Dr Valeri Delpech, North Coast Regional Director of Population and Public Health, has emphasised the importance of vaccination, stating, 'This latest case is a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is very infectious.'
She advised that anyone born in 1966 or after should have received two doses of the measles vaccine to be fully protected.
The alert also contains an important message for travellers, especially those visiting regions currently experiencing measles outbreaks.
It is crucial to ensure vaccinations are up to date before travelling. For those unsure about their vaccination status, NSW Health advised that it is best to get vaccinated, as additional doses are safe.
Moreover, travellers can also check the Centre for Disease Control webite, where they listed the top ten countries with the most measles cases.
In the event that someone develops symptoms and suspects they may have been exposed to measles, it is critical to call ahead to their GP or emergency department to avoid spending time in waiting rooms with other patients.
To learn more about measles, you can visit this website.
Members, this recent health alert highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations, not just for personal health but also for the well-being of our community. It's essential to stay informed about potential exposure sites and to follow health advisories closely.
This is not the first health alert against measles. Last month, NSW issued the same warning after an infected infant and its family visited several places in the state.
Have you or someone you know been affected by measles? Share your experiences in the comments below.
The traveller, who recently returned from Asia, has been confirmed to have measles, prompting New South Wales (NSW) Health to issue an urgent health alert for multiple areas in the state.
The individual infected promptly returned to Murwillumbah upon their return from overseas travel.
This case has raised alarms due to the highly contagious nature of measles, which can be easily spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
NSW Health issued an urgent health alert for measles. Image source: Freepik
The alert specifically advised primary and secondary students who used the Singh Company school bus on February 5, as well as residents who visited Murwillumbah Hospital between specific hours on Friday and Saturday, to be vigilant for symptoms.
These symptoms can include a runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks, followed by the characteristic rash that starts on the head and spreads to the rest of the body.
Measles is not to be taken lightly as it could lead to severe complications and even death. While anyone can be infected, children are the most vulnerable.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, especially for those with weakened immune systems. It is characterised by a red rash that spreads across the body.
Despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine since 1963, measles remains a significant global health threat.
According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 128,000 people died from measles globally in 2021.
Dr Valeri Delpech, North Coast Regional Director of Population and Public Health, has emphasised the importance of vaccination, stating, 'This latest case is a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is very infectious.'
She advised that anyone born in 1966 or after should have received two doses of the measles vaccine to be fully protected.
The alert also contains an important message for travellers, especially those visiting regions currently experiencing measles outbreaks.
It is crucial to ensure vaccinations are up to date before travelling. For those unsure about their vaccination status, NSW Health advised that it is best to get vaccinated, as additional doses are safe.
Moreover, travellers can also check the Centre for Disease Control webite, where they listed the top ten countries with the most measles cases.
In the event that someone develops symptoms and suspects they may have been exposed to measles, it is critical to call ahead to their GP or emergency department to avoid spending time in waiting rooms with other patients.
To learn more about measles, you can visit this website.
Members, this recent health alert highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations, not just for personal health but also for the well-being of our community. It's essential to stay informed about potential exposure sites and to follow health advisories closely.
This is not the first health alert against measles. Last month, NSW issued the same warning after an infected infant and its family visited several places in the state.
Have you or someone you know been affected by measles? Share your experiences in the comments below.
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how rude was he! what a 
yeah thank goodness he’s gone.
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language I can’t read it. Stupid post.
