Health authorities in Western Australia have issued a public health alert following the confirmation of two new measles cases in Perth, with a Batik Air flight from Indonesia identified as a significant exposure site. The alert, released on Thursday morning, reveals that the individuals recently returned from an overseas trip last weekend, heightening concerns about the spread of the highly infectious virus.
Exposure Sites and Travel Advisory
Travellers who were on board Batik Air Flight ID6080 from Jakarta to Perth, operating from Friday, February 6 at 6:55 pm to Saturday, February 7 at 12:40 am, are strongly advised to monitor for symptoms. Measles typically takes about 10 days to develop after exposure, but the incubation period can range from seven to 18 days, making early detection crucial.
Symptoms and Infectious Period
Common symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, fatigue, sore eyes, and a cough, which are often followed by a red blotchy rash three to four days later. This rash usually begins on the face before spreading to other parts of the body. Individuals with measles are infectious from one day before symptoms start until up to four days after the rash appears, posing a risk to those who are not immune.
Vaccination Urgency and Public Health Measures
This marks the third measles case in Western Australia for 2026, following a spike in cases last year. WA Health is urging the public to check their vaccination status, particularly emphasizing that people born after 1965 should ensure they have received two documented doses of a measles-containing vaccine. If unsure, individuals can receive another dose to bolster immunity.
The department has highlighted that overseas travellers or anyone who attended the listed exposure sites and is not immune to measles is at risk of contracting the virus. In response, health officials recommend that anyone concerned about potential infection should wear a mask, isolate immediately, and contact a general practitioner or emergency department by phone before seeking in-person medical care.
List of Exposure Sites
- Sunday, February 8, 2026, 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm: Chopsticks Viet Restaurant Northbridge, 168 Newcastle Street, Perth
- Sunday, February 8, 2026, 11:30 am to 2:15 pm: Oikos Church, 8 Malland Street, Myaree
- Saturday, February 7, 2026, 12:40 am to 1:30 am: Perth Airport Terminal 1, 1 Horrie Miller Drive, Perth
- Friday, February 6, 2026, 6:55 pm to Saturday, February 7, 2026, 12:40 am: Batik Air Flight ID6080 from Jakarta to Perth
For further information, the public is encouraged to refer to the official health alert online or contact healthdirect at 1800 022 222. This development underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations and adhering to public health guidelines to prevent further outbreaks.
