A confirmed case of measles linked to mining operations in Western Australia has led to several staff members isolating at the BHP Newman Operations site. The individual, who traveled to Newman, located approximately 1,170 kilometers northeast of Perth, attended work on July 2 after visiting the region in early July. BHP has since reported that the affected individual has been off-site for the past week, and no additional cases have been identified.
BHP released a statement indicating, “We are managing a single confirmed case of measles at our Newman Operations.” The company has emphasized its commitment to employee health and safety, stating that precautionary measures have been implemented in collaboration with WA Health. The mining company operates two iron ore mines in Newman, producing about 78 million tonnes of iron ore annually in a town with a population of around 7,000 people.
While no further cases have been confirmed in Newman, it is understood that several staff members are in isolation, with a small number exhibiting cold and flu-like symptoms. BHP has assured that operations at the mine have not been affected. In addition, Fortescue Mining Group, which manages other sites in the region, confirmed its awareness of the reported cases and is actively cooperating with health authorities.
The measles situation in Western Australia has recently escalated, with two locally acquired cases identified within the week. The individual who visited Newman is believed to have traveled on Qantas flight QF1705 from Perth to Newman on June 23 and returned on July 2. During their time in Newman, they visited a fuel station on the morning of July 4 before flying back to Perth on July 7.
Health Advisories and Exposure Sites
The WA Department of Health has issued health alerts regarding potential exposure locations, which include airports in Perth, Newman, and Port Hedland. The second confirmed measles case involved a member of the Qantas flight crew who traveled to Port Hedland on July 3 and returned to Perth shortly afterwards on flight QF1643. Port Hedland is significant for its role in the mining industry, housing the world’s largest bulk export port.
Exposure sites also extend to retail and food locations in the Perth suburbs of Scarborough and Mindarie between July 1 and July 8. The Department of Health has advised that measles symptoms typically appear 10 days following exposure, though they can take up to 18 days to manifest. The disease spreads through airborne droplets and may present symptoms such as fever, fatigue, runny nose, cough, sore eyes, and a red rash.
Given the seriousness of measles, which can lead to hospitalization and, in rare cases, may be fatal, the health authorities recommend that anyone who has visited the exposure sites and develops symptoms seek medical attention immediately. It is advised to contact healthcare providers beforehand to alert them of possible infection risks.
As Australia was declared measles-free in 2014, the occurrence of imported cases highlights the importance of vigilance and adherence to health protocols, especially in communities linked to major mining operations.
