A measles alert has been issued across parts of the Gold Coast following a confirmed case at Clover Hill State School.
Queensland Health reported that the infected individual attended school on Tuesday 7th of October from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., while unknowingly infectious. The person also used public transport that same day, including the afternoon school bus from Tulipwood Drive, Bonogin, to Austinville, and the afternoon bus from Clover Hill State School to Austinville.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with fluids from the nose or mouth. Members of the public who were at the school or on the specified buses may have potentially been exposed and are advised to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks from the exposure date.
Early symptoms of measles may include fever, lethargy, runny nose, moist cough, and sore red eyes. As the infection progresses, a blotchy red rash often appears, typically starting on the face and spreading across the body. Symptoms usually emerge seven to 10 days after exposure but can take as long as three weeks to develop.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek testing from a doctor and avoid public spaces. Queenslanders who may have been exposed can also call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.
Most Australians can reduce their risk of measles through vaccination. According to Queensland Health, individuals who have been vaccinated or previously contracted measles are very unlikely to become infected, even if exposed. Those unsure of their vaccination status are advised to contact their doctor to determine if they need a vaccine.
