WA records first measles case of 2026 as returned Bali traveller sparks Perth health alert
Western Australia records first measles case of 2026; health authorities confirmed that the infection was caused by a traveler returning from Bali.
WA Health issued an alert on Thursday after the highly contagious disease was diagnosed, listing five public exposure sites across Perth.
Anyone who visited South Street Pharmacy in Murdoch between 8.40am and 9.15am on Monday, January 19, is advised to monitor for symptoms for 18 days after exposure.
Other exposure locations include Woolworths Coolbellup on Friday 16 January between 7.05pm and 7.40pm; Bunnings O’Connor between 7.10am and 7.50am on the same day; Melville Toyota on Thursday, January 15 between 7.50am and 8.30am and again between 4.15pm and 4.45pm; and Wembley Golf Club on Wednesday, January 14, from 11.15am to 11.50am.
WA Health has confirmed one case of measles has been detected in the state so far this year, compared to 63 cases recorded throughout 2025.
Measles symptoms usually develop about 10 days after exposure, but this period can vary from seven to 18 days.
The virus is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets; It can remain airborne for up to 30 minutes after the infected person leaves the room.
Early symptoms include fever, fatigue, runny nose, red eyes, and cough; This is followed by a distinctive red rash a few days later.
Health officials are urging Australians to make sure their vaccinations are up to date, especially before traveling abroad.
For more information go to: HealthyWA.
