LIVE: Smoke Emerges Above Bahrain International Airport

In a historic move, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced the release of 400 million barrels of oil from its reserves. This decision...
HomeAUUnveiling the Source: Asia-Linked Infectious Disease Outbreak Grips Sydney

Unveiling the Source: Asia-Linked Infectious Disease Outbreak Grips Sydney

Share and Follow
An outbreak of measles in Sydney has been predominantly linked to return travellers from Southeast Asia.
A report from NSW Health said of the 60 cases of the highly infectious disease seen in the state since the start of last year, over half had come from people who had travelled in the region.
While Australia has officially been measles-free since 2014, it is common in several Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, which is a popular tourist destination for Australians.
Measles is spreading within the community in many parts of Sydney. (Getty)
It comes as Sydney battles a growing outbreak of measles, with two more cases confirmed late yesterday, taking the current tally of people infected with the disease since January 1 to 26.

NSW Health has issued an alert indicating that measles could be making its rounds in the community, with one case confirmed as locally acquired and the origins of another still under investigation. The health department expressed concerns that the virus could already be circulating among people, many of whom may not yet be aware of their exposure.

Measles viral disease, human skin covered with measles rash, vaccination concept
Symptoms of measles can include a rash all over the bodt, and can take up to 18 days to appear. (Getty)

In light of this development, several locations have been identified as potential exposure sites. These include eateries and healthcare facilities across the Northern Beaches, the north shore, and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Authorities are urging those who visited these places to stay vigilant for any signs of the disease.

Particularly of concern is the Summer Dance Festival held at Liberty Hall Courts in Moore Park on March 7th. Attendees are advised to remain alert for symptoms until March 25th, as measles can take up to 18 days to manifest.

Dr. Christine Selvey from NSW Health has outlined the symptoms to watch for, including a fever, sore eyes, a runny nose, and a cough. These symptoms typically precede the appearance of a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and head before spreading to the rest of the body.

“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body,” Dr Christine Selvey from NSW Health said.

Measles morbillivirus structure - 3d rendered image. Abstract background.
Experts say vaccination is the quickest and best way to prevent yourself from getting measles. (Getty)
Health officials say vaccination is the quickest and safest way to protect yourself from contracting measles.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is free for anyone in NSW born after 1965, and is given to babies when they are 12 months and 18 months old.

Selvey said those overseas should be aware of their vaccination status before they travel.

“This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment.”

You can find a full list of current exposure sites here.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.

Share and Follow