Measles case confirmed at multiple crowded sites in Brisbane
A person with measles has been identified in Brisbane, prompting a government health alert.
The individual attended a string of busy locations while infectious over three days this month.
These included:
- Brisbane International Airport (arrived on China Southern airlines flight CZ381) from 7:55-9:25am on Monday, April 7.
- Mantra hotel and apartments at 70 Mary Street, Brisbane City from 9am on Monday, April 7 until midday on Wednesday, April 9.
- Woolworths MacArthur building, 229 Queen Street, Brisbane City, 2-3pm on Tuesday, April 8.
- Emergency Department, Mater Hospital Brisbane, 12-12:45pm on Wednesday, April 9.
The infected person flew into Brisbane on April 7. Credit: Photography AFR
In a statement, Metro North Public Health physician Dr David Harley said anyone at these locations during the above times should monitor themselves for symptoms for 18 days.
“If they do develop symptoms, they should seek medical advice,” he said.
“Early symptoms of measles include a fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, and red, inflamed eyes.
“Those symptoms then progress to a blotchy red rash, which often starts on the face before becoming widespread.
“Anyone seeking treatment for an illness they think could be measles should call ahead before visiting their GP or medical practice to allow precautions to be taken that can prevent the illness spreading to others.”
The new alert came after health authorities on Sunday revealed another traveller infected with measles had been visiting locations across south-east Queensland last week.
Sunday’s update from Brisbane’s North Metro Health Service mentioned Australia Zoo, Surfers Paradise, Brooki Bakehouse, Queen Street Mall and Central Station as potential exposure sites.
Queensland recorded nine cases of measles in 2024, up from five in 2023.
Most people who contract the disease recover well, although three in 10 will be admitted to hospital.
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