Australians have been placed on high alert as cases of what is being described as “the most infectious virus” continue to surge across the globe. Health authorities have expressed concern that measles, which was effectively eliminated in Australia back in 2014, may already be spreading undetected within communities, driven by overseas outbreaks and declining vaccination rates.
Sharp rise in cases across the country
This year, Australia has recorded 105 cases of measles, with the majority linked to travellers returning from South East Asia. New South Wales has experienced the most significant spike, while alerts have also been issued in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia. Public health physician David Durrheim told 7NEWS: “We’ve seen in New South Wales 46 cases already this year, and that’s more than we’ve seen in New South Wales for the past 10 years.”
Unlinked infections raise alarm
Health authorities are particularly worried about a handful of infections that cannot be traced back to any known source, suggesting that the virus may be circulating undetected. Globally, outbreaks have been reported in Europe, America and Asia, with the worst currently occurring in Bangladesh, where more than 300 people—mostly children—have died. Paediatric infectious diseases physician Linny Phuong commented: “This is something that is preventable. These deaths should not occur.”
Symptoms and transmission
Symptoms typically begin about 10 days after exposure and include fever, tiredness, cough and runny nose. A few days later, the characteristic skin rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Phuong noted that by the time patients are diagnosed, they have often been in contact with many people, increasing the risk of further transmission.
Vaccination rates falling
With vaccination rates on the decline, doctors fear the number of cases will only worsen. Phuong highlighted the role of misinformation: “There is so much misinformation and disinformation out there that parents are now questioning the science.” The advice for Australians travelling overseas is to ensure they are fully vaccinated before departure. Exposure sites are listed online for public awareness.
