New Measles Alert in Sydney: What You Need to Know
NSW Health is urging Sydney residents to be vigilant about the signs and symptoms of measles after confirming two new cases in the city. One case was contracted locally, and the other recently returned from South-East Asia.
The risk of measles in NSW is currently elevated, with 10 cases confirmed since January 1, 2026. Here's a breakdown of the locations and times where people may have been exposed to the virus, and what you should do if you've been there:
Exposure Locations and Times:
January 31, 2026:
- Granville Swim Centre, Granville (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
- St Patrick's Cathedral, Parramatta (6:00 PM - 7:30 PM)
February 3, 2026:
- Woolworths, Granville (3:55 PM - 4:45 PM)
- Medicines R Us, Gregory Hills (2:25 PM - 3:15 PM)
February 6-7, 2026:
- Westmead Hospital Emergency Department (9:30 AM on 6th to 11:30 AM on 7th)
Important Information:
- The locally acquired case visited a coffee shop co-located with Burwood Urgent Care Clinic at 8 Elsie St, Burwood, on January 22, 2026. Anyone who entered the Elsie Suites building between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM that day should get tested for symptoms.
- The list of exposure locations and times is regularly updated on the NSW Health website: Measles Public Exposure Locations.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Sore eyes
- Cough
- A red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head to the body (usually appearing three to four days after other symptoms)
What to Do If You've Been Exposed:
- If you develop early symptoms and have been at one of the listed locations, see your doctor or health service immediately. Call ahead to inform them of your potential exposure to measles.
- Anyone with early symptoms, regardless of location, should consider measles and get tested, even if the rash hasn't appeared yet.
- Symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure, so be vigilant for this period.
Measles Prevention:
- Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. Ensure you are up to date with your vaccinations.
- Anyone born after 1965 needs two doses of the measles vaccine, especially before international travel.
- The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, provided for free at 12 and 18 months for children, and for adults born after 1965 who haven't received two doses.
- Children under 12 months can receive a dose of MMR from six months if traveling internationally. Consult your GP for this.
Additional Resources:
- For more information, visit the NSW Health Measles Factsheet.
- Check the Australian Government's Smart Traveller website for health risk information related to your travel destination.
- If you have symptoms or questions, contact your GP or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Remember, early detection and vaccination are key to preventing the spread of measles. Stay informed and take action if you've been exposed!
