Measles

Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, which can cause serious disease.

In Australia, there have been years with 10 annual cases and some with up to 340 in Australia since 2000.

Many of these cases in returned travellers. In the NT, there have been zero to 54 annual cases.

Due to high levels of immunisation, measles is now uncommon in Australia.

How it spreads

Measles is spread by breathing in airborne droplets from the coughs and sneezes of people infected with the disease.

It is one of the most highly infectious communicable diseases.

In Australia, most measles infection originates from:

People who are not immune by vaccination or previous infection are at risk of measles infection.

Those who were born before 1966 were most likely exposed to measles and are considered immune.

The symptoms of measles are fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes.

These symptoms usually occur about 7 to 10 days after exposure to a case followed by a red, blotchy rash 2 to 3 days later.

The rash starts on the face and spreads down the body.

One third of people with measles develop complications, particularly young children and adults.

These include ear infection, diarrhoea and pneumonia, which may require hospitalisation.

Rarely, measles may result in encephalitis (infection of the brain).

A person with measles is infectious from 24 hours before the onset of the first symptoms until 4 days after the appearance of the rash.

They are most infectious before the rash appears so they often do not know they have measles.

Measles can be difficult to diagnose early because there are other viruses that cause similar symptoms.

Sometimes, a doctor to can make an diagnosis on the:

If measles is suspected, swabs from the nose or throat, a urine sample or a blood test can be collected to confirm the diagnosis.

Confirming the diagnosis is important so that other people who may be at risk of measles can be identified.

There is no specific treatment for measles.

People with measles should have plenty of fluids and rest, and treat symptoms as they occur.

People who have measles must stay at home until they are no longer infectious.

All cases of measles must also be reported to the local Centre for Disease Control by:

This is so people at risk of infection can be identified and control measures can be implemented to prevent further spread.

To find out more, go to the NT Health website.

Contact your nearest Centre for Disease Control on the NT Health website.