Measles infects fourth person at UQ

Measles is continuing to spread at Queensland's biggest university, with the highly contagious virus infecting a fourth person in the past five weeks.

Queensland Health physician James Smith said the student had been at a lecture at The University of Queensland (UQ) with another person who had contracted the illness.

While possibly infectious, the student had also been to a pub, shopping centre and GP clinic.

A vaccination clinic will be set up at UQ's St Lucia campus this week, with students living in the university's residential colleges in particular, invited to attend.

"Measles is a very contagious virus that is spread from person-to-person by tiny droplets created during coughing and sneezing," Dr Smith said.

"The droplets can remain suspended in the air."

Dr Smith said the disease can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.

He said symptoms usually started about 10 days after infection.

"Anyone who develops measles-like symptoms should isolate themselves from school, work and social activities and seek medical advice," he said.

WHERE THE INFECTIOUS STUDENT WENT:

* Aug 11-19 - UQ St Lucia campus

* Aug 13 - Indooroopilly shopping centre

* Aug 15 - The Royal Exchange Hotel

* Aug 16 - Taringa Day and Night Medical Centre

(Source: Metro North Hospital and Health Service)