Measles alert for Sydney Airport and Northern NSW
17 Sep 2025
The case had recently returned from Western Australia, where there is an active measles outbreak.
Exposure locations
People who were at the following locations should watch for symptoms. These sites do not pose an ongoing risk:
Friday 12 September 2025
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Virgin Australia flight VA572, Perth to Sydney (arriving 6.29am)
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Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (T2), 6:30–7:00am
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Virgin Australia flight VA505, Sydney to Gold Coast (arriving 8:31am)
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Gold Coast Airport baggage and arrivals area, 8:30–9:20am
Monday 15 September 2025
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Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department, 9:30–11:00am
What to look out for
North Coast Population and Public Health Director, Dr Valerie Delpech, said people who visited these locations should monitor for measles symptoms until 3 October 2025.
Common symptoms include:
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fever
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sore eyes
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runny nose
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cough
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a red, blotchy rash appearing 3–4 days later, spreading from the face to the rest of the body.
Dr Delpech urged anyone who develops symptoms to call ahead before visiting their GP or emergency department to avoid exposing others.
Vaccination reminder
Measles is highly contagious but preventable with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
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Anyone born after 1965 should ensure they have had two doses of MMR.
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The vaccine is free in NSW for eligible children and adults.
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Children can receive a dose from six months of age if travelling overseas.
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People unsure of their vaccination history are encouraged to get vaccinated, as extra doses are safe.
“Measles outbreaks are happening overseas right now. This is a timely reminder to check your vaccination status, especially before travelling,” Dr Delpech said.
For more information, visit the NSW Health measles factsheet.
Source: NSW Health, September 2025
