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Health experts have issued a warning that the AFL Grand Final could trigger an outbreak of measles that may spread nationally.
Reigning premiers Brisbane are set to take on Geelong this Saturday afternoon at the MCG, with around 30,000 Lions fans expected to travel down to Victoria to watch their team attempt to defend their title.
However, it has been reported in recent days that the contageous virus has been sweeping its way across Queensland and now there are fears that it could spread to Melbourne.
It was confirmed on Thursday that multiple cases of the virus had been detected, prompting a public health alert.
It is understood that the case recently returned to Australia following an overseas trip where it is believed the person contracted the illness.
Health authorities in the Sunshine State have urged members of the public to get vaccinated as a result.
Master Director of Infectious Diseases Paul Griffin has expressed fears that this weekend’s AFL showpiece could cause the measles to spread throughout the country.
Professor Griffin himself is a Brisbane Lions fan and is in Melbourne for this weekend’s big match.
‘Fleeting contact, or even being in the same room as someone two hours after they were there infectious with measles is enough to get infected,’ he said.
‘The most concerning outbreak is in Cairns, with a dozen confirmed cases this month, but we’ve also got multiple cases in central Queensland and on the Gold Coast.
‘Considering how highly contagious the measles virus is, we will likely have many more reported cases in the coming weeks and there is a risk that more could soon be occurring in Victoria.’
Symptoms can include a fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose and red inflamed eyes.
Those who contract the illness can also experience a blotchy red rash.
‘Several of the current cases are linked to returning overseas travellers, and with around 100,000 people expected at the MCG for the grand final, people should double check that they are vaccinated,' professor Griffin added.
‘It’s largely transmitted through coughing, sneezing, even talking or breathing in the air of someone who was infected. Large gatherings, like the MCG crowd, are obviously a potential spreader event.
‘Measles is so infectious that the virus lingers for several hours in a room, and you can still be infected even after they’ve left.’
According to Dr Dough haw, a Metro North Public Health Physician, symptoms typically start around 18 days after first infection.
More to follow...
