NSW Health has issued a warning regarding a confirmed case of measles in Northern Sydney. The individual was infectious during visits to several locations in the area after returning from Indonesia, where measles outbreaks are ongoing. They were also identified as a contact of another confirmed case on their return flight to Australia.
Authorities are urging anyone who visited the following locations during specified times to monitor for symptoms of measles. These locations do not currently pose an ongoing risk but require vigilance.
Exposure Locations and Times
On December 27, 2025, the individual traveled on a train from Thornleigh Station to Epping Station, followed by a bus to Macquarie Centre around 11:00. At Macquarie Centre, they were present from 12:00 to 19:00, visiting various spots including Mitzu Restaurant from 13:00 to 14:20, the children’s play area from 14:20 to 16:00, and F&L Gourmet Restaurant from 17:00 to 19:00.
The following day, December 28, 2025, they were at Storey Park playground in Asquith from 12:30 to 14:00. On December 30, 2025, they visited Waitara Oval from 13:00 to 13:30, followed by Jamie’s Kitchen and the children’s play area at Waitara PCYC until 15:00, and then Aldi Supermarket at Westfield Shopping Centre in Hornsby from 14:45 to 16:15. Finally, on December 31, 2025, they were at Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital Emergency Department from 17:15 to 20:00.
For a comprehensive list of locations and times, individuals can refer to the NSW Health website.
Symptoms and Vaccination Guidance
According to Dr. Sean Tobin, Acting Director of Public Health for the Northern Sydney Local Health District, anyone who visited the specified locations should monitor for measles symptoms. If symptoms develop, individuals are advised to consult their doctor or health service. It is crucial to call ahead to inform them of potential exposure to measles to avoid spending unnecessary time in waiting areas.
The symptoms to be aware of include fever, sore eyes, a runny nose, and a cough, typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body. Dr. Tobin noted that symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear following exposure. Individuals who visited the affected locations should remain vigilant for symptoms until January 18, 2026.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Dr. Tobin emphasized the importance of ensuring that vaccinations are current, as the measles vaccine can still provide protection if administered shortly after exposure.
Anyone born after 1965 should verify that they have received two doses of the measles vaccine, especially before traveling overseas, given the current outbreaks in multiple regions worldwide. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, provided free to children at 12 and 18 months of age, and is also available at no cost in NSW for individuals born after 1965 who have not yet received two doses.
Parents with children under 12 months can consult their GP about administering a dose of MMR from six months of age if traveling internationally. Individuals unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to receive additional doses, as they are safe and can enhance protection, particularly before travel. The MMR vaccine is accessible through GPs and pharmacies for those over five years of age.
For further information regarding measles, individuals can view the measles factsheet available through NSW Health. Those experiencing symptoms or with questions about measles should contact their GP or reach out to healthdirect at 1800 022 222.
