Sydney Health Alert After New Measles Cases
11 Mar 2026
Health officials say the second case had no known contact with another measles patient and did not visit any known exposure sites. Because the source of infection is unknown, it is possible measles is currently spreading in the community.
A list of exposure locations is available on the NSW Health website and is updated regularly. People who visited those places should monitor for symptoms, although the locations no longer pose an ongoing risk.
If it has been less than six days since visiting one of the listed locations and you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have a baby who may have been exposed, you should contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055.
There is currently a higher risk of measles in NSW, with 26 cases reported since 1 January 2026.
Christine Selvey said people should keep an eye out for symptoms, especially if they visited one of the exposure locations. She advised anyone with symptoms to call ahead before visiting a GP, clinic, or emergency department so they do not sit in waiting rooms with other patients.
Early symptoms include fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and cough. A few days later, a red, blotchy rash usually appears, starting on the face and head and spreading to the rest of the body.
Symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure, so people who visited exposure sites should watch for signs during that time.
People can catch measles from the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Health officials are reminding people to check they are up to date with their vaccinations.
The Measles‑Mumps‑Rubella vaccine (MMR) is safe and effective and is given free to children at 12 and 18 months of age. In NSW, it is also free for anyone born after 1965 who has not had two doses.
Babies under 12 months can receive an early dose from six months of age if they are travelling overseas. Parents should speak with their GP.
Anyone unsure about their vaccination history is advised to get vaccinated, as extra doses are safe. The MMR vaccine is available through GPs for all ages and pharmacies for people over five years old.
More information about measles is available in the official measles factsheet and on the Australian Government travel health website.