Measles outbreak escalating in Western Australia

Health authorities in Western Australia reported three additional measles cases, leading the total number in the state to eight. These latest cases were traced to Bunbury Regional Hospital and Hakea Prison in Perth, increasing concerns that the outbreak could spiral out of control. In the past three weeks, more than 40 exposure sites have been flagged across the state, including shopping centres, playgrounds, and cafes. Half of the total cases are linked to Bunbury Regional Hospital, with the other half tied to Hakea Prison and another correctional facility. The hospital is trying to curb additional infections in cooperation with regional health authorities. However, Paul Effler, Western Australia Health’s acting director of communicable diseases, said that a surge in cases is inevitable due to the highly contagious nature of the disease. He also emphasized the importance of vaccination to prevent infection and urged unvaccinated people who visited exposure sites to watch for symptoms.
Australia has seen a surge in measles cases in recent years, with 26 in 2023 and 57 in 2024. This year, there have been so far 39 confirmed cases, with 14 in Victoria and 13 in New South Wales. The outbreak in Western Australia indicates the further spread of the disease in the country.