Queensland is currently experiencing a concerning increase in measles cases, sparking public health alerts and warnings across several regions. Health experts are urging people to stay alert and check their vaccination status as the virus continues to spread.
What’s Happening?
In the past few months, several individuals in Queensland have tested positive for measles after returning from overseas or visiting crowded public places. These people unknowingly visited popular spots while they were contagious, putting others at risk of infection.
Some of the recent locations visited by those infected include major shopping centres, airports, schools, and even community parks in areas like Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and South Bank. Health officials have warned that anyone who was in these places around the same time should be on the lookout for symptoms.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours, which makes it easy to catch, especially in places with large crowds.
The first signs of measles usually show up within a week to 10 days after exposure. These include:
- High fever
- Cough and runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Small white spots inside the mouth
- A red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads across the body
The rash is one of the most well-known symptoms and often appears a few days after the first signs, like fever and cough.
Who’s Most at Risk?
While measles can affect anyone who is not vaccinated, some people are more likely to develop serious complications. These include young babies, people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and adults who have not had two doses of the measles vaccine.
Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and in rare cases, brain swelling. These can lead to hospitalisation and even death in extreme cases.
Health authorities have reported that some adults have ended up in hospital during the recent outbreak. This shows how dangerous the virus can be, even for those who are generally healthy.
Why Are Measles Cases Increasing?
One major reason behind the current outbreak is international travel. Some people caught the virus overseas and brought it back to Australia. When they visited public places before realising they were sick, the infection spread to others.
Another reason is that some people are not fully vaccinated. This might be due to missed doses during childhood, vaccine hesitancy, or simply not knowing whether they received both doses.
The pandemic also caused disruptions in routine vaccinations and international travel rules, which may have led to gaps in immunity in some communities.
The Importance of Vaccination
Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from measles. The vaccine is safe, effective, and part of the national immunisation schedule for children in Australia. Most people get their first dose at 12 months and a second dose at 18 months.
If you’re an adult born after 1966 and you’re not sure whether you’ve had both doses, it’s a good idea to get vaccinated. A doctor can help check your records or recommend another dose if needed.
The vaccine not only protects the person who receives it but also helps stop the virus from spreading in the community.
What Should You Do Now?
If you think you may have been exposed to measles or are showing any symptoms, you should:
- Stay home and avoid public places.
- Call your doctor before visiting. This helps them prepare and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others in the clinic.
- Check your vaccination status. Make sure you and your family members are fully protected.
- Be cautious if you plan to travel. Ensure your vaccines are up to date, especially when visiting countries where measles is still common.
Final Thoughts
The current measles outbreak is a reminder of how quickly infectious diseases can return when vaccination rates drop or immunity gaps form. Thankfully, measles is preventable — and by staying informed, getting vaccinated, and acting quickly if you have symptoms, everyone can help stop the spread.
