Three measles cases confirmed in New South Wales, including an unvaccinated traveler from Vietnam.
Several public locations in Lake Macquarie and Newcastle were visited by infected individuals.
Experts warn Australia could face a larger outbreak due to lower-than-recommended vaccination rates.
How Dangerous is Measles and Who is at Risk?
Health officials are urging residents in New South Wales to be on high alert after three people infected with measles visited multiple public places. The disease, which is highly contagious and can be fatal for young children, spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and a persistent cough, followed by a red, blotchy rash. Since symptoms can take up to 21 days to appear, people who were at the affected locations are advised to watch for signs over the next three weeks.
The outbreak stems from an unvaccinated traveler returning from Vietnam, where a measles surge is ongoing. Health authorities warn that Australia’s vaccination rate is below the 95% target required for herd immunity, putting communities at greater risk of outbreaks.
What Should You Do?
If you visited Charleston soccer ground, Belmont Hospital, or Go Vita shopping centers on specific dates, monitor for symptoms.
If symptoms appear, call ahead before visiting a doctor to prevent spreading the virus.
Check your vaccination status—NSW offers free measles vaccines for children and eligible adults.
The World Health Organization declared Australia measles-free in 2014, but small outbreaks still occur due to frequent international travel. With vaccination rates slightly below the safe threshold, experts warn that the country could become a hotspot for the virus if people don’t stay up to date with their immunizations.
Health officials strongly advise Australians—especially travelers—to ensure they are vaccinated to prevent further spread. Stay safe, stay informed, and get vaccinated!
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