Measles Cases Surge Across Queensland: Health Officials Race to Trace Contacts
Queensland health authorities are stepping up contact tracing efforts after five new measles cases were confirmed across the state’s south-east. Officials are warning the public to expect more infections as measles cases surge nationwide.
The jump in local cases has prompted Queensland Health to coordinate with health officials in New South Wales amid a wider national uptick. Across Australia, 153 cases have been recorded so far this year — nearly triple last year’s total and the highest number since 2019. Western Australia has also reported its largest measles outbreak since 1997.
Health officials confirmed that one of Queensland’s latest infections was linked to a traveller who had recently returned from Indonesia. Three other cases are associated with last month’s Jelly Roll concert at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Authorities are notifying attendees from the October 24 event as part of the ongoing contact tracing process.
Public Urged to Check Vaccination Status
All five recent patients are aged between 30 and 49. Health authorities say only one had received a full vaccination overseas, while the others were partially vaccinated or not immunised at all.
So far this year, Queensland has recorded 30 cases in total — 12 of which were imported from overseas travel, while another 12 were close contacts of returned travellers.
Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall is urging Queenslanders, especially those planning overseas trips, to check their vaccination records. “We’re seeing a significant number of cases linked to travel from Indonesia, particularly Bali, as well as Cambodia and Vietnam,” she said. “With Schoolies coming up, we want young people to make sure they’re fully vaccinated before heading overseas.”
Health Minister Tim Nicholls emphasised the importance of seeking medical advice early for anyone showing symptoms such as fever, cough, or runny nose. “Please don’t go straight to the emergency department, as this increases the risk of spreading the virus,” he said. “Contact your doctor first for advice on the safest way to get treatment.”
He added that anyone born after 1966 who has only received one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine should get a booster shot, which is available free through the National Immunisation Program and offers around 97 percent lifelong protection.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that typically begins with cold-like symptoms before developing into a distinctive red rash. An infected person can spread the virus from one day before symptoms appear until about four days after the rash emerges.
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