Measles Outbreak in Australia: Get Vaccinated

0:00On March 4th, here's the latest out of Sydney. Health officials in Victoria and New South Wales are raising the alarm over a sharp rise in measles cases this year. Victoria has reported 17 cases so far while New South Wales has seen 23. Most infections happen locally, without recent overseas travel or visits to known hotspots. Earlier this week, Victoria's Health Department updated its list of exposure sites, mainly hospitals and clinics in various suburbs. In New South Wales, recent cases linked to spots like hospitals in Auburn, Campbelltown, and Westmead, plus Sydney Airport and a flight to Melbourne. Authorities are stressing the need for two doses of the measles, Mum's Rebella vaccine for full protection. The disease spreads easily through the air from coughs or sneezes, starting with fever, cough, red eyes, and a runny nose, then a blotchy rash. Free vaccines are available for anyone born after 1965 who needs them, or kids do the national program at 12 and 18. Months. Officials know vaccination rates in Australia

1:03fall short of the 95% target needed to stop outbreaks. Travelers should get vaccinated at least two weeks before trips, as cases are climbing worldwide in places like Indonesia, Thailand, and India. If you've been to exposure sites, watch for symptoms, and call ahead to your doctor. This episode is brought to you in partnership with our sponsor. What is cooler than cool, a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.com.