A health warning has been issued in the Northern Territory after a person traveled through several Australian airports while infectious with measles.
The alert comes after a man, who is believed to have acquired the disease in Indonesia, visited multiple public locations in the NT between July 17 and 23.
If you were on tourism trips in the state, at a restaurant in Kakadu National Park, or traveled through Darwin or Alice Springs Airports on specific dates in July, you need to be on the lookout for measles symptoms.
These symptoms include a fever, sore eyes, a runny nose, a cough, and a blotchy red rash.
“Check your vaccination status,” a health spokesperson urged. “Measles is highly contagious but preventable with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.”
The Man’s Infectious Journey
The man went on an all-day tour with Ethical Adventures in Litchfield National Park on July 17, and the next day, he left for an overnight tour with AAPT Kings Jabiru.
He was at the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel in Jabiru from 6pm to 8pm on July 18, and then visited the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory from 1pm to 3pm on July 20.
He then went to Darwin Airport at 3.30pm and flew to Alice Springs on Qantas flight QF1960, arriving at 7pm.
On Wednesday, July 23, the man flew from Alice Springs to Cairns on Air North flight TL361.
What to Do If You Were Exposed
If you were at any of these locations during these times, monitor yourself for symptoms. Remember, symptoms can take up to 18 days after exposure to develop.
The vaccine is safe and effective, and available from your GP, local health centre, Aboriginal health clinic, and vaccinating pharmacies.