NSW Health has issued a warning regarding a confirmed case of measles in northern Sydney, urging residents to be vigilant for symptoms. The individual in question was identified as being infectious during visits to multiple locations after returning from Indonesia, where measles outbreaks are currently occurring. Additionally, they were recognized as a contact of another measles case on their flight back to Australia.
Individuals who were present at the following locations should monitor for potential symptoms of measles:
– **December 27, 2025**: Train from Thornleigh Station to Epping Station, followed by a bus to Macquarie Centre around 11:00. Time spent at Macquarie Centre was from 12:00 to 19:00, including:
– Mitzu Restaurant from 13:00 to 14:20
– Children’s play area from 14:20 to 16:00
– F&L Gourmet Restaurant from 17:00 to 19:00
– **December 28, 2025**: Storey Park playground in Asquith from 12:30 to 14:00.
– **December 30, 2025**: Waitara Oval from 13:00 to 13:30, followed by Jamie’s Kitchen and the children’s play area at Waitara PCYC from 13:30 to 15:00, and Aldi Supermarket, Westfield Shopping Centre in Hornsby from 14:45 to 16:15.
– **December 31, 2025**: Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital Emergency Department from 17:15 to 20:00.
The complete list of locations and times is available on the NSW Health website.
Acting Director of Public Health for the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Dr Sean Tobin, emphasized the importance of monitoring for symptoms if individuals visited these locations during the specified times. Symptoms typically include fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and cough, often followed by a red, blotchy rash three to four days later.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after exposure, so those who were at these locations should remain observant until January 18, 2026,” said Dr Tobin.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Dr Tobin also reminded the community to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure if administered promptly.
“This should serve as a reminder for everyone to check their protection status against measles, particularly for those planning to travel abroad, as outbreaks are prevalent in various regions worldwide,” he added.
Individuals born after 1965 are advised to confirm that they have received two doses of the measles vaccine. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, provided free of charge for children at 12 and 18 months of age. In New South Wales, it is also available at no cost for anyone born after 1965 who has not received two doses.
For children under 12 months, a dose of MMR can be administered from six months of age if they are traveling internationally. Parents are encouraged to consult their general practitioner for guidance.
Those unsure about their vaccination status should consider receiving an additional dose, as extra vaccinations are safe. MMR vaccines are accessible through general practitioners and pharmacies for individuals over five years old.
For further information on measles, residents are directed to the measles factsheet available on the NSW Health website. If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of measles, or if there are any inquiries about the virus, please contact your GP or call healthdirect at 1800 022 222.
