Urgent Warning Issued Over Deadly Measles Outbreak in NSW
Health officials urge vigilance as measles symptoms emerge in NSW
Measles, NSW, Australia, Vaccination, Health Warning
Byron Bay: Health authorities in New South Wales are sounding the alarm about measles after an infected traveler visited several spots in the area. They’re asking everyone to keep an eye out for symptoms.
The person recently returned from South-East Asia, where measles is making a comeback. They were out and about in places like the beach and shopping centers between December 16 and 18.
Officials are particularly concerned because measles is super contagious. Jeremy McAnulty, the Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, is urging folks to be on the lookout for signs like fever, sore eyes, and a cough. A rash usually shows up a few days later.
It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to pop up after being exposed, so if you were in those areas, keep watching for symptoms until January 5.
Dr. McAnulty also stressed the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations, especially for anyone planning to travel. The measles vaccine is free for kids at 12 and 18 months, and for adults born after 1965 who haven’t had two doses.
If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, it’s a good idea to get the vaccine anyway. It’s safe to have extra doses.
The vaccine is available at general practitioners and pharmacies for kids over five. If you were at any of the locations listed on the specified dates, be sure to monitor for symptoms.
Measles can lead to serious health issues, so vaccination is key. The World Health Organization says the vaccine has saved millions of lives since 2000.