WA Health Issues Urgent Measles Warning Following Emergency Department Exposure
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A fresh measles warning has been issued by WA Health after identifying the Fiona Stanley Hospital emergency department as a recent exposure site. Individuals who visited the emergency department on Monday, January 19, 2026, between 6:50 PM and 10:05 PM are advised to monitor for symptoms for up to 18 days.
Bali Traveler Linked to New Case
The latest alert stems from a confirmed case in a traveler recently returned from Bali. According to the alert, this case is directly linked to the exposure at Fiona Stanley Hospital. This follows an earlier public health alert issued on Thursday regarding the state’s first measles case of the year, which identified several other potential exposure locations, including retail stores and pharmacies.
Understanding the Threat of Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. Typically, symptoms begin to develop approximately 10 days after exposure. Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue, a runny nose, sore eyes, and a cough. These are followed, within three to four days, by a distinctive red blotchy rash that originates on the face and then spreads across the body.
Rising Cases and Vaccination Urgency
Western Australia experienced its highest number of measles cases in 30 years last year, with a total of 63 reported infections. These cases were concentrated in clusters across the South West, Pilbara, and metropolitan areas. In light of this, health authorities are strongly urging residents to verify their vaccination status and ensure they are current with a measles-containing vaccine.
Recent Exposure Sites
WA Health has identified the following locations as potential exposure sites:
- Monday, January 19, 2026, 6:50 PM to 10:05 PM: Fiona Stanley Hospital Emergency Department waiting room, 11 Robin Warren Dr, Murdoch
- Monday, January 19, 2026, 8:40 AM to 9:15 AM: South Street Pharmacy, 386 South St, O’Connor
- Friday, January 16, 2026, 7:05 PM to 7:40 PM: Woolworths Coolbellup, 1 Waverley Rd, Coolbellup
- Friday, January 16, 2026, 7:10 AM to 7:50 AM: Bunnings O’Connor, Cnr South St & Yarrick St, O’Connor
- Thursday, January 15, 2026, 7:50 AM to 8:30 AM and 4:15 PM to 4:45 PM: Toyota Melville, Cnr N Lake Rd & Leach Hwy, Melville
- Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 11:15 AM to 11:50 AM: Wembley Golf Club, 200 The Boulevard, Wembley Downs
For comprehensive information regarding exposure sites and preventative measures, individuals are encouraged to visit the WA Health alert online.
