As of March 28, Qantas Airways has acknowledged that one of its crew members came down with a case of measles. Accordingly, health authorities have issued a public warning to potential passengers exposed on flights between Perth and Port Hedland. The forced-on flights, QF1642 and QF1643, are a lifeline for the powerful but troubled mining industry. They’re the key to FIFO (Fly In Fly Out) workforces in the Pilbara region. News of such a widespread outbreak is indeed alarming, particularly when we consider how contagious a disease measles really is.
Recently the City Department of Health issued a Public Health Advisory for the outbreak, noting that measles symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure. They tend to show up about 10 days late. Washington residents should be able to easily find a list of exposure sites by July 15, 2025. Click here for a complete list of each site’s date, time, and location. Lunch time rush hour retail and food service activity in Perth metro suburbs like Scarborough and Mindarie.
Details of Exposure Locations
The exposure incidents are related to a crew member who contracted measles after exposure on an international flight in early July. This has been the only off-site case in the past week, and no additional cases have been identified. Reminders that contact tracing is ongoing today. The hope is to track down “patient zero,” the original carrier believed to have infected both cases.
The public health alert initially tracked one measles case, but in mid-March announced a second confirmed case. This traveller arriving into Port Hedland on QF1642 on July 3. This person flew back to Perth shortly after their visit on flight QF1643.
Health officials have raised fears specifically over the impact on FIFO workers who often travel on these flights. Port Hedland is, by most measures, the world’s largest bulk export port. It plays an essential role as a gateway for industries that rely on FIFO labour.
“One of our crew contracted measles following a flight in early July,” – Qantas spokesperson
Chief Health Officer Dr. Paul Armstrong urges the public to be aware of measles symptoms. He thinks the key to success during this trying time is simply being informed. He stated, “It’s about making sure people are aware of the symptoms of measles and to isolate themselves immediately.”
Ongoing Contact Tracing Efforts
Public health expert Dr. Armstrong runs the city and county’s contact tracing operation. His immediate target is to identify people who might be in close contact with the infected crew member. Public health officials want to get ahead of anyone who is at risk for developing measles symptoms after exposure.
Dr. Armstrong added, “Then to look out for any contacts that may have been exposed to these people that aren’t immune and to make sure that they’re very aware of the symptoms of measles so they can look out for them.” These measures are significant in limiting the spread of any possible outbreak from these cases.
On a final note, BHP has recently made headlines because they are dealing with one confirmed case of measles at their site in Newman Operations. In addition, the company has introduced an internal contact tracing process to help identify any staff who were exposed.
“The individual has been off-site for the past week and no additional cases have been identified.” – BHP
Importance of Public Awareness
While health officials monitor the situation and conduct their investigation, public awareness is a priority. Measles is highly contagious, so early identification and isolation is key to preventing additional transmission. Health authorities are urging residents who were at these exposure sites during these specific times to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms. Monitor yourself for early signs of low quality sleep.
Dr. Armstrong noted that there is particular concern regarding a flight from Newman to Perth on June 23, stating, “There is a particular flight from Newman to Perth on the 23rd [of June] which we think that’s where the smoking gun is.” This shocking disclosure further emphasizes the need for deep investigation and long-term monitoring to safeguard public health.
