From the School Nurse 

SCHOOL NURSE NEWSLETTER MAY 2005

MEASLES UPDATE!

There is currently an increased risk of Measles in greater Melbourne, Mitchell Shire and Macedon Ranges Shire in addition to the ongoing risk of Measles carried by travellers returning from overseas.

Measles is a highly infectious disease and can cause serious illness such as Pneumonia and Encephalitis.

While most of our students have been vaccinated against Measles as part of the routine Immunisation Schedule it is important to remember that there may be instances where a student has not been vaccinated.

Anyone planning to travel overseas should check and ensure their immunisations are up to date, especially the MMR vaccine. This is a free vaccination available at your local doctor.

See your doctor if your child develops a rash after having fever, cough, runny nose or red irritated eyes.

This is particularly important if your child has recently travelled overseas or been in contact with a known measles case.

Locations that have been identified as possible contact with Measles are listed below:

Kilmore District Hospital on Wed 23rd April

Pet stock Kilmore on Tues 22nd April

Coles Kilmore on Tues 22nd April

Kilmore Library on 22nd April

ALDI Kilmore on Monday 21st April

Woolworths Kyneton Sat 19th April

Melbourne Airport on 20th April 24th April, or 29th April.

Please remember to monitor for symptoms for 14 days after the date of exposure.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore, red and itchy eyes, runny nose, general malaise (fatigue) followed by the onset of a fine red rash.

The rash tends to start on the face before spreading down the body.

If you suspect yourself or a member of your family have Measles, please seek medical care and testing at your local doctor clinic. Please call ahead to advise the clinic you suspect Measles and wear a face mask to your appointment.