Measles alert: Fears Qantas flight could be infected
A measles alert has been issued for passengers on a flight from Singapore to Melbourne last week, with authorities desperately working with airline officials to identify passengers.
Daily Mail reports Victoria's Department of Health and Human Services has issued an alert from any passenger aboard flight Qantas QF 36, which arrived on April 16 at 6:40am, and has noted that other travellers not on the flight might too be at risk.
A man who had been travelling earlier in Thailand reportedly became ill after his arrival, and authorities fear he may have been infectious during the flight.
Deputy chief health officer Dr Brett Sutton says authorities are working with the airline to identify those passengers most at risk, but anyone who was near the international baggage collection and shuttle bus pick up area on April 17 should notify their doctor or emergency department if they become ill over the next week.
“Unfortunately the notification was made late to the department, so it's only now that passengers are being warned and some may already be showing early symptoms,” Dr Sutton said.
“It's critical that diagnosing doctors and laboratories notify the department as soon as they're aware of cases, to enable immediate follow-up.”
What are your thoughts?