NSW Health has issued a warning regarding a confirmed case of measles in Northern Sydney. The individual, who recently returned from Indonesia where measles outbreaks are occurring, was infectious while visiting several public locations in the area. This alert aims to inform the public about potential exposure and encourage vigilance for symptoms.
Locations and Dates of Potential Exposure
The confirmed measles case visited multiple sites in Northern Sydney between December 27 and December 31, 2025. Individuals who were present at the following locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms:
- December 27, 2025: Train from Thornleigh Station to Epping Station, then bus from Epping Station to Macquarie Centre around 11:00. Macquarie Centre 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, Asquith, from 12:30 to 14:00.
- December 30, 2025: Waitara Oval from 13:00 to 13:30; Jamie’s Kitchen and children’s play area at Waitara PCYC from 13:30 to 15:00; Aldi Supermarket, Westfield Shopping Centre, Hornsby from 14:45 to 16:15.
- December 31, 2025: Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital Emergency Department at various times from 17:15 to 20:00.
These locations do not pose an ongoing risk, but those who attended should remain vigilant.
Symptoms and Recommendations
The Acting Director of Public Health for the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Dr. Sean Tobin, emphasized the importance of monitoring for symptoms. Individuals who visited the aforementioned locations should be aware of the following signs: fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and cough, which are typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it’s important for people who visited these locations to look out for symptoms until January 18, 2026,” Dr. Tobin stated.
Dr. Tobin advised anyone developing symptoms to contact their doctor or health service before visiting, to prevent potential exposure to other patients in waiting rooms.
Vaccination and Prevention Measures
Measles is a highly infectious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease. Dr. Tobin urged the community to ensure they are up-to-date with measles vaccinations, particularly before traveling overseas.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is offered free to children at 12 and 18 months of age in New South Wales. Additionally, anyone born after 1965 who has not received two doses of the vaccine can obtain it free of charge. Parents of children under 12 months who plan to travel overseas can consult their general practitioner about administering the vaccine from six months of age.
For those unsure of their vaccination status, Dr. Tobin recommended seeking a vaccine, as additional doses are safe and can provide protection, especially before international travel.
MMR vaccinations are accessible at general practices and pharmacies for individuals over five years old. For more information on measles, residents can visit the NSW Health website or consult their healthcare provider.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms consistent with measles, please contact your doctor or call healthdirect at 1800 022 222.
