Date issued: 26 September 2023
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 identified in a returned overseas traveller.
- The case attended a single exposure site in Melbourne on 20 September 2023 while infectious.
- People who have attended this site during the specified date and time 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 were 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 all people born during or since 1966 who do not have documentation that they have received two doses of measles containing vaccines. Vaccinate all individuals who are unsure of their vaccination history, regardless of Medicare status.
- There is no need to check serology prior to vaccination.
- Anyone planning overseas travel should make sure they have received vaccinations appropriate for travels a negative COVID-19 test, but develops a rash, consider measles
- Read the full alert: New measles case in Victoria.
