Toowoomba is at the centre of a measles scare for the second time in two months.
The Darling Downs Public Health Unit is urging the community to be on alert for measles symptoms after a confirmed case was detected in Toowoomba last week.
Dr Liam Flynn, Executive Director Medical Services, said the alert was being issued due to the highly contagious nature of measles.
“The number of exposure sites is limited in this instance, but we continue to take the disease seriously,” Dr Flynn said.
The previous measles scare occurred in November when an infected person visited five sites in Toowoomba.
The latest scare involves a patient who flew into Brisbane International Aiport before travelling to Toowoomba.
The infected person visited Toowoomba Medical and Dental Centre in James Street
On Tuesday, January 20 and then the emergency department at St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba on Thursday, January 22.
Measles spreads through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
Infants under 12 months, people who are not fully vaccinated, and those with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk.
Symptoms usually begin 7–10 days after exposure but may take up to three weeks.
The symptoms include fever, tiredness, a runny nose, a cough and red eyes. However, its most obvious symptom is a blotchy red rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body.
If you have symptons, call your doctor to arrange testing.
Vaccination is the best protection. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free for anyone born during or after 1966 who has not received two doses.
“Two doses of MMR vaccine give lifelong protection against measles. If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, it is safe to have another dose. Speak with your GP or pharmacist as soon as possible,” Dr Flynn said.n