Public urged to watch for measles symptoms after new cases emerge in WA

WA’s measles outbreak has grown to 14 cases after two more infections were confirmed over the weekend, with a busy shopping centre now an exposure site.

WA Health has confirmed two new measles cases, bringing the total number of infections in Western Australia to 14 since March 19.

The latest cases were infectious while visiting multiple public locations across Perth and the South West between April 6-11, including shops, food venues, a pharmacy, a medical centre, and Bunbury Regional Hospital.

Exposure sites include Woolworths Dalyellup, Bunbury Drive-In Pharmacy, San Churro at Karrinyup Shopping Centre, Bunbury Regional Hospital, Last Slice pizza restaurant in Dalyellup, and Rotary Park BBQ in Busselton.

Health authorities are urging anyone who was at the listed locations during the specified times to monitor for symptoms.

The latest cases come after a previously confirmed infection on April 2, which was linked to a person who had recently returned from Pakistan.

The other cases are part of a larger outbreak involving Hakea Prison, Bunbury Regional Prison and Bunbury Regional Hospital, a statement from WA Health said.

A full list of exposure sites is available at health.wa.gov.au.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation).

A WA Health alert said early signs of infection include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed by a distinctive red, non-itchy rash that usually appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.

“People with measles usually feel very unwell,” the health alert said.

Infants under 12 months are particularly at risk, as they are too young to be fully vaccinated. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is typically given at 12 and 18 months of age, but infants aged 9 to 12 months may be eligible for an early dose before overseas travel.

The measles virus is highly contagious and can be especially dangerous to babies. (Photo by: BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

With rising global measles activity, particularly in South and South-East Asia, WA Health is encouraging travellers to ensure they are fully vaccinated before heading overseas.

Two doses of the measles vaccine are highly effective in preventing infection. Free vaccinations are available in WA for anyone born in or after 1966 who hasn’t already had both doses.

Anyone who suspects they may have measles is urged to seek medical advice, but should call ahead to their GP or hospital to avoid exposing others.

Originally published as Public urged to watch for measles symptoms after new cases emerge in WA