Date issued: 17 02 2024
Issued by: Dr Clare Looker, Chief Health Officer
Issued to: Health professionals and the Victorian community
Key messages
- A new case of measles has been reported in a returned overseas traveller who transited through Melbourne Airport while infectious on 14 and 15 February 2024.
- The passenger arrived from overseas on 14 February 2024 before travelling on to South Australia on 15 February 2024.
- Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can spread from person-to-person and potentially lead to serious health complications.
- People who have attended the listed exposure sites during the specified dates and times should monitor for symptoms of measles.
- Anyone who develops symptoms of measles should seek medical care. Wear a mask and call ahead to make sure you can be isolated from others.
- Healthcare professionals should be alert for measles in patients with fever and rash, particularly those who have recently returned from overseas or attended a listed exposure site during the specified period.
- Suspected cases should be tested, advised to isolate, and notified to the Department of Health immediately by calling 1300 651 160.
- Offer free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine to people born during or after 1966 who do not have documentation of having received two doses of measles-containing vaccine. Vaccinate all individuals who are unsure of their vaccination history, regardless of Medicare status.
- There is no need to check measles serology prior to vaccination.
- Anyone planning overseas travel should make sure they have received appropriate travel vaccinations.
- Read the full alert: Measles alert for Melbourne Airport and plane passengers
