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Authorities say measles outbreak at Ipswich poses serious public health risk

Authorities say a measles outbreak at Ipswich, west of Brisbane, has become a serious public health risk in the city.

There have been 12 cases of measles in Ipswich in recent weeks, with the latest being confirmed on Monday.

Public health physician Dr Kari Jarvinen says that is significant, because normally there are not any at all.

“Twelve doesn’t sound much but in the context, it’s a large number and many times over that number of people have been exposed,” he said.

“It’s serious when you consider that for many years before, we had zero.

“Because measles is so infectious – even one case can pass it on to quite many other people.”

Dr Jarvinen says the only way to stop outbreaks is to ensure people are vaccinated.

He says free vaccinations will be available today at the Riverlink food court in Ipswich’s CBD to try and stop the disease spreading.

The West Moreton Hospital and Health Service is urging people to see their doctor if they cannot attend.

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