New cases of measles in Victoria

Victoria has recorded two new measles cases in returned overseas travellers. This is in addition to the case in a returned traveller alerted earlier this week.

These cases were infectious at a number of public premises between 17 and 24 January 2024.

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads quickly with close contact, especially in those who are not fully vaccinated. Young children and adults with weakened immune systems are the most at risk of serious illness.

Overseas travel remains a significant risk factor for anyone not fully vaccinated and vulnerable to the disease, with the current cases having returned from travel to Indonesia, India and Sri Lanka.

As a result of these cases there are multiple local public exposure sites that have been identified, with those who attended these sites urged to seek medical care if they develop symptoms, and to wear a mask and call ahead to ensure they can be isolated from others.

DateTimeLocationMonitor for onset of symptoms up to
Wednesday, 17 January 20246:00am – 3:00pmBay City Auto Group (and associated construction site)

140 Dandenong Road West, Frankston, VIC 3199

Sunday, 4 February 2024
Wednesday, 17 January 20247:30pm – 9:30pmBox Hill Action Indoor Sports

9 Clarice Road, Box Hill, VIC 3128

Sunday, 4 February 2024
Thursday, 18 January 20246:00am – 3:00pmBay City Auto Group (and associated construction site)

140 Dandenong Road West, Frankston, VIC 3199

Monday, 5 February 2024
Friday, 19 January 20246:00am – 3:00pmBay City Auto Group (and associated construction site)

140 Dandenong Road West, Frankston, VIC 3199

Tuesday, 6 February 2024
Monday, 22 January 20225:30pm – 7:20pm

Costco Ringwood

29 Bond Street, Ringwood VIC 3134

Friday, 9 February 2024
Tuesday, 23 January12pm – 12:45pm

DFO South Wharf – shopping centre and carpark

20 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf VIC 3006

Saturday, 10 February 2024
12:15pm – 2:30pmDocklands Park Playground

1-47 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands VIC 3008

Saturday, 10 February 2024
12:40pm – 1:40pm

Collins Square Food Court

727 Collins Street, Docklands VIC 3008

Saturday 10 Feb 2024
1:10pm – 1:40pmTram 48 to North Balwyn from Stop 1 Spencer St/Collins St to Stop 5 Elizabeth St/Collins St #5Saturday, 10 February 2024
1:40pm – 3:35pmSea Life Melbourne Aquarium

King St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Saturday, 10 February 2024
3:30pm – 5:30pmMelbourne River Cruises 4pm departure

Berth 2, Federation Wharf, Princes Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000

Saturday, 10 February 2024
5:30pm – 6:00pmTram 70 to Waterfront City Docklands. From Stop 6 Russell Street/Flinders Street to Stop D6-Victoria Police Centre/Flinders StSaturday, 10 February 2024
5:40pm – 6:20pm

DFO South Wharf – carpark only

20 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf VIC 3006

Saturday, 10 February 2024

The illness usually begins with common cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, red eyes and a cough, followed by fever and a rash. The characteristic rash usually begins 3-4 days after the first symptoms, generally starting on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.

“People can be administered MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure to Measles to prevent infection. Failing that, we recommend that people monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if any symptoms develop,” Victoria’s Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Christian McGrath said.

Recent previous cases of measles have been identified in people who are not fully immunised against measles and who have travelled overseas or been in contact with returned overseas travelers. Measles is rare in Australia, thanks to widespread vaccination rates.

“Any overseas travel could lead to exposure to measles at the current time,” Dr McGrath said.

“Measles outbreaks have recently been reported across the Globe and anyone planning overseas travel should ensure they have received appropriate vaccinations, including an MMR vaccine if they don’t have a history of two previous MMR vaccinations,” Dr McGrath added.

Additional information is also available on Better Health ChannelExternal Link.

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