Thursday 18 February 2010
Territorians are being asked to continue to be alert for measles after confirmation of a second case.
The person was infectious while travelling from Adelaide to Darwin on JetStar flight JQ670 on 8 February.
Centre for Disease Control Head of Surveillance Dr Peter Markey said that passengers sitting near the case on the flight to Darwin have been contacted and, if not immune to measles, have been offered preventative treatment.
"However, there is still a small risk that other passengers and visitors to the airport may have been exposed," said Dr Markey.
"Measles is a very contagious viral illness that is spread between people through coughing and sneezing," he said.
"It can affect all ages but children under 12 months and anyone not vaccinated is at much greater risk."
"If you suspect you have symptoms suggestive of measles, and intend visiting a healthcare facility, it is important to phone in advance so that arrangements can be made to prevent the spread of the virus to other people."
Typical symptoms are fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, followed by a red blotchy rash appearing three to four days later.
To be immune to measles you need to have either had measles or had two doses of measles vaccine. Anyone who may have been exposed and who is experiencing these symptoms is encouraged to seek health advice from either their local health provider or the Centre for Disease Control. This advice applies until 1 March 2010.
People not vaccinated against measles are urged to seek protection by getting a vaccination at their community health centre (in the NT) or through most General Practitioners.
Centre for Disease Control contact details:
Business hours: (08) 8922 8044.
After hours: (08) 8922 8888 and ask for the on-call CDC doctor.
http://www.health.nt.gov.au/Centre_for_Disease_Control/Publications/CDC_Factsheets/index.aspx.
