NSW Health issues a warning after a passenger on a Jetstar flight from the Gold Coast to Sydney tests positive for measles, urging those who may have been exposed to be vigilant for symptoms.
Sydney’s health authorities are on high alert following the detection of measles in a passenger who traveled on a Jetstar flight from the Gold Coast to Sydney. The infected individual, who recently returned from Southeast Asia where measles outbreaks are prevalent, boarded Jetstar flight JQ427 on February 7 and passed through Sydney Domestic Terminal 2.
Subsequent to the flight, the passenger utilized public transportation and visited various locations in Sydney, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious virus. NSW Health has identified specific bus routes and establishments visited by the individual, urging anyone who may have been in those areas during the specified times to remain vigilant for symptoms.
Dr. Vicky Sheppeard, director of public health for the South Eastern Sydney local health district, emphasized the importance of recognizing measles symptoms, which include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, cough, and a red, blotchy rash that typically develops several days after initial symptoms.
Although the exposure locations no longer pose a threat, Dr. Sheppeard emphasized the importance of monitoring for symptoms, which can manifest between seven and 18 days after exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others.
NSW Health urges Sydneysiders to ensure they are adequately protected against measles by receiving two doses of the measles vaccine, particularly before traveling overseas. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is readily available through GPs and pharmacies, free of charge for individuals born during or after 1966 who have not yet received two doses. The vaccine is included in the National Immunisation Program for children and is recommended for all ages.
