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The Darling Downs Public Health Unit is urging the community to be on high alert for measles symptoms after a person with a confirmed case visited several locations in Toowoomba while unknowingly infectious.
Dr Liam Flynn, Executive Director Medical Services, said measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in the community.
“Measles is not a mild illness—it is a serious viral infection that can lead to complications. It spreads through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes,”
Dr Liam Flynn, Executive Director Medical Services
"Infants under 12 months, people who are not fully vaccinated, and those with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk."
Exposure locations
Anyone who was at the following locations during the times listed should monitor for symptoms for the next three weeks:
- Motion Toowoomba
Wednesday 5 November - 8.30am - 5.30pm
Thursday 6 November - 8.30am - 5.30pm
Friday 7 November - 8.30am - 5.30pm - Empire Theatre Armitage Centre - “Heath Franklin's Chopper”
Friday 7 November - 6.30pm – 9.30pm - Fitzy’s Toowoomba
Friday 7 November - 9:00pm – 10.45pm - Toowoomba Hospital Emergency Department
Saturday 8 November - 2:45am – 4:07pm - Toowoomba St. Andrews Private Hospital
Saturday 8 November 3:37pm to Saturday 15 November
These sites do not pose an ongoing risk to people.
What to watch for
Symptoms usually begin 7–10 days after exposure (but may take up to three weeks) and include:
- Fever, tiredness, runny nose, cough and red eyes
- A blotchy red rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body
What to do if you have symptoms
- Phone your GP to arrange testing, or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for free advice
- Do not visit medical centres, hospitals, schools, workplaces, or public spaces without calling ahead - this prevents further spread
Prevention through vaccination
Vaccination is the best protection. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective and free for anyone born during or after 1966 who has not received two doses.
“Two doses of MMR vaccine give lifelong protection against measles. If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, it is safe to have another dose. Speak with your GP or pharmacist as soon as possible,” Dr Flynn said.
Children receive the MMR vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age as part of the National Immunisation Program.
If you are unsure of your vaccination status, please contact your GP.
The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is free and available through GPs and participating community pharmacies.
For more information on measles, visit: Measles | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government