South Australia health authorities have issued an alert after a confirmed case of measles was discovered in a young boy. The boy had visited various locations in Adelaide, prompting officials to advise individuals who were present at the specified times and those who are not fully immunized to watch out for symptoms.

The infected boy visited Adelaide Airport on June 11 and later went to SA Pathology and Benson Radiology clinic at Modbury Hospital on June 13. He also visited a surgery in Salisbury Downs on June 14 and the Women's and Children's Hospital on June 15.

In a statement, SA Health urged anyone who isn't fully immunized, especially those who were present at the mentioned locations and times, to be vigilant for symptoms over the next few weeks. If anyone experiences illness, they are advised to seek medical attention promptly.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory tract before spreading throughout the body. Common symptoms include a cough, high fever, runny nose, and a widespread rash. While the disease can affect individuals of any age, it is most prevalent in children. Vaccination is the best preventive measure against measles.

The introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963 greatly reduced the number of cases and deaths caused by the disease. Prior to its availability, major measles epidemics occurred every two to three years, resulting in an estimated annual death toll of 2.6 million people worldwide.

This marks the sixth confirmed case of measles in South Australia this year, with only three cases reported in the previous year. Health officials have noted that most cases in Australia are brought in by overseas visitors or individuals returning from abroad who have not received the recommended two doses of the vaccine.

In response, SA Health has released a list of exposure sites where individuals may have come into contact with the infected boy. The sites include the Women's and Children's Hospital Emergency Department on June 15 and Premium Care Medical Practice in Salisbury Downs on June 12 and 14. The boy also visited Benson Radiology and SA Pathology, both located in Modbury Hospital, on June 13.

In addition, individuals who were present at Adelaide Airport on June 11 and those who were on Flight QF749 from Sydney to Adelaide or Flight EK416 from Dubai to Sydney are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms.

As measles can spread rapidly and has a high transmission rate, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and others. SA Health has emphasized the importance of vaccination, urging those who are not fully immunized to consult with their healthcare providers.

By remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions, the community can help prevent further transmission of this highly contagious disease.