ISLAND TRAGEDY

REEF SNORKELLER DIES:

PUBLIC health officials have issued a measles alert after a backpacker brought the highly infectious disease into Cairns earlier this week.

The patient arrived on a domestic flight in Cairns on October 17 at 10.30pm and went to Reef Backpackers on Grafton St while unwell. The person visited Woolworths supermarket in Abbott St and Alive Discount Pharmacy in Abbott St in the afternoon/ early evening of October 18 and then the 24-Hour Medical Centre on October 19 while infectious.

Public health officials are contacting people who may have been exposed to the disease at the hospital and medical centre as well as the backpacker hostel.

Dr Richard Gair, director of tropical public health services for Cairns, said measles were very infectious and spread by tiny droplets through coughing and sneezing.

“Queensland Health is asking anyone who may have been exposed to the virus and has not previously had measles or been vaccinated against measles to seek medical advice if symptoms develop,” he said.

“The initial symptoms are fever, lethargy, runny nose, moist cough and sore and red eyes, followed a few days later by a blotchy red rash.

“The rash starts on the face then becomes widespread. Symptoms usually start around 10 days after infection but sometimes longer so anyone who develops measles-like symptoms within the next two weeks should contact a GP.”

Those displaying measles symptoms are urged to call ahead before visiting GP surgeries or hospitals.