NSW Health has issued a warning after an adult with a confirmed case of measles flew from the Gold Coast to Sydney, visiting several locations between 7 and 10 February. The individual recently returned from south-east Asia, where measles outbreaks are ongoing, and is not linked to a separate case in northern NSW.
Exposure sites in Sydney include the CBD, Lane Cove and Haymarket. Specific locations are a bus route from Sussex St to Lane Cove Interchange, Thai Chiva Therapeutic Massage in Lane Cove, and Satang Thai Takeaway Restaurant in Haymarket. In Queensland, potential exposure sites include Southport Park Shopping Centre, Palm Springs Café, Sea World Marine Park, and others.
Gold Coast Health also reported a second case: a school-aged child who acquired the virus overseas. The highly contagious virus spreads via coughing and sneezing, with symptoms appearing 7 to 18 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, cough, and a red rash.
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, director of public health for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, urged those who visited the sites at the same times to monitor for symptoms and call ahead before visiting a GP or emergency department. Dr Rebekah Hoffman from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners advised booking a telehealth appointment if symptoms develop.
Measles can cause complications such as pneumonia, blindness and meningitis. Health authorities recommend checking vaccination status, especially before overseas travel.
