Multiple Busselton spots on measles exposure list

A list of Busselton locations has been made public by WA Health, as it manages a case of measles at Bunbury Hospital.

The Department of Health released the list on Thursday afternoon, and advised people who had visited the exposure locations during the relevant times to monitor for symptoms.

“Measles typically develops around 10 days after being exposed to the virus, but this can vary from 7 to 18 days,” A/Director of Communicable Disease Control Directorate, Dr Jelena Maticevic said.

“Measles is highly infectious and can spread via airborne droplets to people close by (e.g. in waiting rooms).

“Droplets in the air may still infect people entering a room up to 30 minutes after an infected person has left it.

“If someone not already immune to measles visited an exposure location during the specified dates and times below, they are advised to monitor for symptoms between 7 to 18 days after the visit.

“Persons who have received two measles vaccinations and those born before 1966 are considered immune to measles.

“There is no ongoing risk of measles at these locations.”

Busselton-area exposure locations and times:

Various other locations across the South West include Bunbury Regional Hospital, Boyanup Farmers Markets, Woolworths Dalyellup and Kmart Bunbury. For the full list, click here.

Earlier, A/Director of Communicable Disease Control Directorate, Dr Paul Effler said the Department was working with Bunbury Regional Hospital to manage any exposure to staff, patients and visitors.

“Extensive contact tracing and infection control measures are underway within the hospital and other locations visited by the case to prevent further infection,” he said.

Early measles symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, followed by a red, non-itchy rash three or four days later. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

“It is important that anyone aged under 60 (who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine) and who visited Bunbury Regional Hospital between 19 and 23 March 2025 should monitor for symptoms, particularly fever and respiratory illness,” Dr Effler said.

“They should continue to monitor themselves for seven to 18 days after the visit.”

Dr Effler said measles can cause very serious illness.

“Fortunately, we have a vaccine that is highly effective in preventing infection,” he said.

“This is a timely reminder to all Western Australians to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations.

“People born after 1965 are encouraged to check their immunisation status to make sure they have had two doses of the measles vaccine.

“Making sure you are protected is especially important for people planning overseas travel as there are measles outbreaks occurring in several countries throughout the world.”

Dr Effler said people who think they may have measles should seek medical care after calling ahead to the GP practice or emergency department to discuss their situation.

They can also contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.