Measles alert across Sydney regions
25 Feb 2026
According to NSW Health, both individuals were infectious while visiting a number of public places. One person became infected after attending an exposure site linked to an earlier case in February. The second case recently travelled to South East Asia, where measles outbreaks are continuing in several countries.
Health officials have updated the list of exposure sites on the NSW Health website and are reminding the public to check the page regularly, as locations and times may change. While there is no ongoing risk at these sites, anyone who was there at the listed times should monitor for symptoms.
So far, 21 measles cases have been recorded in NSW since 1 January 2026, with authorities noting an increased risk across the state.
People who may have been exposed within the past six days and are pregnant, immunocompromised, or caring for an exposed infant should contact their GP.
NSW Health’s Director of Communicable Diseases, Dr Christine Selvey, said it is important for anyone who visited the exposure locations to watch for signs of illness.
Early symptoms include fever, a runny nose, red or watery eyes and a cough. A red, blotchy rash often appears three to four days later, beginning on the face and spreading across the body. Symptoms can take up to 18 days to develop after contact with the virus.
Anyone who becomes unwell should phone ahead before attending a GP clinic or hospital to help prevent possible spread in waiting areas.
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, but it can be prevented with vaccination.
People born after 1965 are advised to check they have received two doses of the measles vaccine. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective and provided free in NSW for eligible individuals. It is routinely given to children at 12 and 18 months of age.
Babies under 12 months can receive an early dose from six months if travelling overseas. Parents should speak with their GP for advice.
Those unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to get vaccinated, as extra doses are safe. The MMR vaccine is available through GPs for all age groups and pharmacies for people aged five and over.
Further details are available on the NSW Health website and through the Smart Traveller website for travel-related health information.
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/
Source: NSW Health
