A new case of measles has been reported in Victoria from a returned overseas traveller. This is in addition to a case reported on 11 May 2024.
The case arrived on flight EK408 from Dubai to Melbourne on 15 May at 9.15pm and transited through Melbourne Airport's T2 international terminal between 9:15pm and 10:30pm.
People who were on this flight or at Melbourne Airport during these times should monitor for symptoms of measles.
| Date | Time | Location | Monitor for onset of symptoms up to |
| Wednesday, 15 May 2024 | 9:15pm - 10:30pm | Melbourne Airport - International Arrivals, Terminal 2, Tullamarine, VIC 3045 | Sunday, 2 June 2024 |
| Wednesday, 15 May 2024 | Departed: Dubai Internatinoal Airport, 15 May 2024 at 2:40am Arrived: Melbourne International Airport, 15 May 2024 at 9:15pm |
Flight EK408 from Dubai to Melbourne | Sunday, 2 June 2024 |
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads quickly with close contact, especially in those who are not fully vaccinated. Young children and adults with weakened immune systems are the most at risk of serious illness.
The illness usually begins with common cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, red eyes and a cough, followed by fever and a rash. The characteristic rash usually begins 3-4 days after the first symptoms, generally starting on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.
People who attended these sites are urged monitor for symptoms, seek medical care if they develop symptoms, and to wear a mask and call ahead to ensure they can be isolated from others.
Overseas travel remains a significant risk factor for anyone not fully vaccinated and vulnerable to the disease, with recent Victorian cases having returned from overseas.
"If you have been to one of the exposure sites, you must monitor for symptoms for 18 days. Symptoms usually start to appear after a week. If any symptoms develop, you should seek immediate medical attention" Victoria's Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker said.
"Please call ahead before arriving at a medical facility, so that they can see you in isolation from other patients."
Recent cases of measles have been identified in people who are not fully immunised against measles and who have travelled overseas or been in contact with returned overseas travelers. Measles is rare in Australia, thanks to widespread high vaccination rates.
"Any overseas travel could lead to exposure to measles at the current time. This disease can be very dangerous for vulnerable people - this is why it's so important to get vaccinated" Dr Looker said.
"Anyone planning overseas travel should ensure they have received appropriate vaccinations, including an MMR vaccine if they don't have a history of two previous MMR vaccinations," Dr Looker added.
Additional information is also available on Better Health ChannelExternal Link.
