Health Authorities Warn of Measles Exposure Linked to Sydney Travel
04 Jan 2026
Health officials in NSW are urging the public to be vigilant after a person with measles passed through Sydney Airport and inner western Sydney while infectious. Anyone who may have crossed paths with the case during late December and early January is being asked to monitor their health.
The alert follows a recent rise in measles cases among travellers returning to New South Wales from South-East Asia, where the virus is currently circulating widely. This newly identified case is the third such infection reported in the state within a single week.
Where Exposure May Have Occurred
People who were in the locations listed below during the specified times should be alert for symptoms. Authorities have confirmed there is no continuing risk at these sites.
Monday, 29 December 2025
- Qantas flight QF748 from Adelaide to Sydney, landing at 10:30pm
- Sydney Airport Domestic Arrivals, Terminal 3, between 10:30pm and 11:00pm
➡️ Monitor for symptoms until 16 January 2026
Friday, 3 January 2026
- Concord Repatriation General Hospital Emergency Department between 1:00pm and 4:10pm
➡️ Monitor for symptoms until 21 January 2026
Earlier measles cases detected in returned travellers were also linked to exposure locations across northern and western Sydney. Updated location lists are available through NSW Health.
What to Do if You May Have Been Exposed
According to Western Sydney Local Health District Acting Director of Public Health Dr Conrad Moreira, anyone who attended these locations during the identified times should remain alert to early signs of illness.
If symptoms appear, people should contact their GP or local health service. Calling ahead is strongly recommended to avoid exposing others in waiting areas.
Recognising Measles Symptoms
Measles often begins with fever, red or sore eyes, a runny nose and cough. A distinctive red rash usually develops several days later, starting on the face before spreading across the body.
Symptoms can take up to 18 days to emerge after exposure, making continued monitoring essential for anyone potentially affected.
Vaccination Strongly Recommended
Health authorities say the recent cluster of cases highlights the importance of vaccination, particularly for those planning overseas travel.
Measles spreads easily through the air and can infect people who share the same space, even briefly. Vaccination can prevent illness and may still be effective if given soon after exposure.
Anyone born after 1965 is advised to ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, especially before international travel, as outbreaks continue in several parts of the world.
Vaccine Access in NSW
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free and widely available in NSW. It is routinely given to children at 12 and 18 months of age and is also free for adults born after 1965 who are not fully vaccinated.
Babies aged six to 12 months may receive an early dose before overseas travel. Parents should seek advice from their GP.
For those unsure of their vaccination history, receiving an additional dose is safe. MMR vaccines are available through GP clinics for all ages and pharmacies for people aged over five years.
Source
NSW Health and the Australian Government Smart Traveller program.
