Urgent measles alert issued for Aussie city

Brisbane: A two-year-old boy has tested positive for measles after traveling through several airports in Australia. This has led to a significant health alert.

The child, who lives in the Brisbane area, was confirmed to have measles by the Metro North Public Health Unit. They’re now working with local health facilities to track where he went.

Dr. Megan Young, a public health physician, is urging anyone who was in the same places as the child to check their immunity. It’s crucial to know if you’re protected against measles.

The little boy traveled through Bangkok, Melbourne, and Brisbane airports from December 7 to 9. He also visited the Prince Charles Hospital’s Pediatric Emergency Department on December 10 and 12.

He even attended a graduation ceremony at QUT on December 10 while he was infectious. So, if you were around during that time, it’s best to be cautious.

Dr. Young recommends that anyone born after 1996 who hasn’t had two doses of the measles vaccine should get vaccinated. Measles spreads easily through tiny droplets from coughing and sneezing.

Symptoms usually show up about 10 days after exposure, but they can appear anywhere from 7 to 18 days later. If you start feeling unwell, stay home and reach out to your doctor.

Initial symptoms include fever, tiredness, a runny nose, a cough, and red, sore eyes. A few days later, a blotchy red rash appears, often starting on the face and spreading.

If you think you might have measles, it’s important to call your doctor first. This way, they can take the necessary precautions to keep others safe.