After a locally acquired case, residents in Melbourne’s southeast are advised to remain vigilant for disease outbreak

Southeast Melbourne locals are being warned to be on the lookout for measles cases after a Victorian resident contracted the illness from a returning visitor.
Between March 14 and March 19, when measles outbreaks happen all over the world, the traveller visited 18 places in the region.
The illness can spread from person to person and is very contagious.

“MMR vaccination can be given to people to prevent infection within 72 hours of measles exposure,” stated Professor Ben Cowie, the chief health officer of Victoria.
“Failing that, we recommend that people monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if any symptoms develop.”
Typically, the illness starts out feeling like a common cold and progresses into a fever and rash in three to four days.

“Unlike other recent outbreaks, this case of measles was acquired here in Victoria,” Cowie stated.
“This is why it is so important for you, and your children, to be vaccinated against measles.”
Australia has a low rate of measles because of high vaccination rates.

If the individual has never received two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine in their lifetime, they strongly advise getting the shot before travelling abroad.