**MEASLES OUTBREAK**
There has been an additional unrelated case of measles in a returned overseas traveller who may have been infectious whilst in the Point Cook area between Monday 4 February and Friday 8 February.
This is in addition to the previously reported confirmed case of measles who has spent time in and around the Southbank area and Melbourne Airport while infectious between Monday 4 February and Thursday 7 February inclusive.
This is a timely reminder for individuals to check their vaccination records. Free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is now available for adults born during or since 1966 who do not have documented evidence of receiving two doses of a measles-containing vaccine or do not have documented evidence of immunity.
WHAT IS MEASLES?
Measles is a contagious viral illness that causes a skin rash and fever. Serious and sometimes fatal complications include pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation).
The signs and symptoms of measles may include, fever, general discomfort, illness or lack of wellbeing (malaise), runny nose, dry cough, sore and red eyes (conjunctivitis), red and bluish spots inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots), red and blotchy skin rash that appears first on the face and hairline, and then spreads to the body.
WHERE TO GET HELP
– Your doctor – PLEASE CALL BEFORE ATTENDING AND STATE YOU SUSPECT MEASLES. RECEPTION WILL GIVE YOU INSTRUCTIONS!
– In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
– Emergency department of your nearest hospital
– Local government immunisation service
– Maternal and Child Health Line (24 hours) Tel. 132 229
– NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)
– Immunisation Program, Department of Health & Human Services, Victorian Government Tel. 1300 882 008
– National Immunisation Information Line Tel. 1800 671 811
– Pharmacist
– SAEFVIC Tel. 1300 882 924 – the line is attended between 10 am and 3.30 pm and you can leave a message at all other times