City Bulletin: Major Health Alerts and Essential Transit Updates for Thursday

Public Health Alert: Increased Measles Risk

The Victorian Chief Health Officer, Dr. Caroline McElnay, has issued a high-priority health alert following a rise in measles cases across the metropolitan area. As of Thursday, 12 February, health authorities have confirmed multiple cases in 2026, primarily linked to overseas travel from South-East and South Asia. Residents who visited international airport terminals or inbound flight settings are urged to monitor for symptoms including fever, cough, and a characteristic red rash. Vaccination remains the most effective defense; those born during or after 1966 are encouraged to verify they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine to ensure community protection.

Transport Disruptions: Eastern Freeway and Local Resurfacing

Commuters should prepare for significant traffic changes as part of Victoria’s Big Build infrastructure projects. The Bulleen Road city-bound exit ramp remains closed 24/7 to facilitate the construction of new noise walls and a shared path underpass. This closure is expected to continue into mid-March, with delays of up to 20 minutes anticipated. Additionally, city-bound lanes on the Eastern Freeway between Doncaster Road and Bulleen Road have been split into two sections under new concrete structures. Locally, asphalt resurfacing on the Warburton Highway in Wandin North concludes tonight, February 12, with lane closures in both directions between Union Road and Beenak Road from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM.

Victoria Police: Community Safety Operations

Victoria Police have activated designated search areas under the Control of Weapons Act to ensure public safety in high-traffic zones across Melbourne. Through late February, officers have increased powers to conduct searches for prohibited weapons at several major shopping precincts and transit hubs, including:

• Highpoint Shopping Centre
• Northland Shopping Centre
• Eastland Shopping Centre
• Fountain Gate Shopping Precinct
• Bayside Centre, Frankston

These operations are aimed at deterring anti-social behavior and maintaining a safe environment for the public during the busy summer period.

Upcoming Council Governance and Public Notices

The City of Melbourne has updated the schedule for upcoming governance meetings. While no formal session is held today, the Future Melbourne Committee is slated to convene at the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Tuesday, 17 February, at 5:30 PM. Official meeting papers and agendas are scheduled for public release today at 2:00 PM. In other legal developments, a court injunction remains active for three public housing towers in the inner city, temporarily halting planned evictions pending further judicial review of the state's redevelopment strategy.