NSW Issues Measles Warning After Four New Cases
13 Feb 2026
NSW Health is alerting the public after four new measles cases were detected across the state.
Three of the cases were caught locally, including two linked to previous infections in NSW. The source of the third local case is still unknown. The fourth case involves a traveller returning from South East Asia, where measles outbreaks are continuing.
The infected people visited several places in NSW while contagious, including healthcare facilities and public locations in northern, south eastern, and south western Sydney, Illawarra Shoalhaven, western NSW, and the mid north coast. NSW Health says there is no ongoing risk from these sites.
Since the start of 2026, 14 measles cases have been confirmed in the state.
Dr Christine Selvey, Director of Communicable Diseases NSW, said people who have been to the affected locations should look out for symptoms:
“Measles usually starts with fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and cough. A few days later, a red, blotchy rash often appears, starting on the head and spreading to the rest of the body. If you notice symptoms, contact your GP or local health service and call ahead before attending.”
Symptoms may appear up to 18 days after exposure, so it’s important to monitor your health during this period.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when someone coughs or sneezes. Vaccination can prevent infection and may help if given soon after exposure. People born after 1965 should ensure they have two doses of the MMR vaccine.
In NSW, the MMR vaccine is free for:
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Children at 12 and 18 months
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Anyone born after 1965 who has not had two doses
Children under 12 months travelling overseas can receive their first dose up to six months early. Vaccines are available at GP clinics for all ages and pharmacies for those over 5 years.
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/
Source: NSW Health; Australian Government
