Advertisement

Thousands potentially exposed to measles in Melbourne - and the suburbs at risk

Thousands of Victorians could have been exposed to measles, with the health department confirming three cases of the infection.

Luckily, all three people are stable after having contracted the highly contagious virus, which starts with common cold symptoms.

The illness develops into a fever and a rash, which spreads from the face down the body.

The highly contagious virus starts with common cold symptoms. Picture: 7 News/File
The highly contagious virus starts with common cold symptoms. Picture: 7 News/File

Two of those infected visited a number of public places between late August and mid-September including shopping centres in Richmond, Carnegie and Chadstone; as well as the St Kilda Library and Collins Street, Docklands.

They also travelled on the Frankston train line between Armadale and South Cross Stations.

One of the infected also attended Federation University in Ballarat.

Two of those infected visited these locations between late August and mid-September. Picture: 7 News/File
Two of those infected visited these locations between late August and mid-September. Picture: 7 News/File

The health department is trying to track down passengers on board a September 12 flight from Romania, after it is believed the third patient may have contracted the virus in that country.

“There would be thousands who've come within the vicinity of those individuals and so are potentially at risk," Deputy Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton told 7 News.

"It's a highly infectious virus, you don't have to be right next to someone or face to face to be exposed to the measles virus.“

Anyone who is concerned that they may have contracted the illness is advised to attend a local hospital or GP, but should call ahead first.