A measles alert has been issued for locations within a busy suburb on the Sunshine Coast, amid a spike in cases across the state.
The Metro North Hospital and Health Service issued the alert for potential exposure areas in Mooloolaba on September 21. The alert was also for locations in Brisbane from September 19 to 21.
“Queensland Health has been notified of a confirmed case of measles infection who spent time in the following public places while unknowingly infectious,” authorities stated.
“An alert is issued to provide advice to people who have potentially been exposed to measles.”
The potential exposure areas on the Sunshine Coast were outside Mooloolaba Fish Market on September 21, 5.30pm to 6.45pm, outside Artigiano Gelato on Mooloolaba Esplanade from 4.45pm to 5.45pm, Surf Dive and Ski on Mooloolaba Esplanade from 4.15pm to 5pm and La Casa Restaurant pn Mooloolaba Esplanade from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.
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“Members of the public who visited the above areas on the specified times may have been exposed to the disease and need to be alert for symptoms for up to three weeks from the exposure date.”
“Measles is a highly infectious virus that is spread by coughing and sneezing or through direct contact with secretions from the nose or mouth.
“Symptoms usually start 7 to 10 days after contact with an infected person but can sometimes take as long as three weeks.”
The alert stated that the initial symptoms of measles can include fever, lethargy, runny nose, moist cough and sore red eyes.
“This is followed a few days later by a blotchy, red rash which often starts on the face and then becomes widespread over the body.”
The latest alert comes after more than 20 people were reported to have contracted measles in various locations around the state.
Queensland Health stated that people with symptoms can arrange testing with their doctor or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.
“If you think you may have measles, it is very important that you avoid public spaces.”
“Please contact your GP and pathology services before attending so they can take appropriate precautions to avoid spreading measles to others. When you call, state that you have been in contact with a measles case.”
Queensland Health also urged people to be vaccinated.
“Vaccination is an important step towards reducing the risk associated with vaccine preventable diseases and keeping people safe.”
“People who have been vaccinated against or previously contracted measles are very unlikely to catch the disease even if they have been exposed.
“If you are unsure of your vaccine status, contact your doctor to discuss whether you may need a vaccine.”
For more information about measles, call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or go to the Queensland Government website.
