Measles Alert Issued for Six Sydney Locations After Two New Cases Confirmed
Two new reported cases of measles have triggered a fresh alert for six locations across Sydney's CBD, inner west, and western suburbs. NSW Health announced on Wednesday that both individuals were unknowingly infectious while visiting these sites, which include high-end restaurants and a hospital.
Details of the Cases and Exposure Sites
One of the cases is believed to have contracted measles from another confirmed case at a listed exposure site earlier in February. The other case recently returned from South East Asia, where multiple outbreaks are currently ongoing. The new exposure sites identified by health authorities are:
- Tuga Pastries in Alexandria from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM on February 18
- Bistecca in Sydney CBD from 2:15 PM to 4:30 PM on February 19
- Vini Divini Wine Bar in Sydney CBD from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM on February 19
- Rivaereno Gelato in Barangaroo from 7:40 PM to 8:30 PM on February 19
- Stinking Bishops Restaurant & Deli from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on February 20
- Lismore Base Hospital Emergency Department from 5:05 PM to 6:20 PM and 10:45 PM to 11:20 PM on February 21
Health Advice and Monitoring
Anyone who was at these locations during the specified times is urged to monitor for symptoms for 18 days after their visit. Initial and most common symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and a cough. Several days later, these symptoms typically progress to a red, blotchy rash that starts on the head and face before spreading down the body.
Individuals experiencing more advanced symptoms should seek medical help but are advised to call ahead so precautions can be implemented before arrival. NSW Health also warns that people at higher risk of developing dangerous symptoms should contact a local Public Health Unit. This includes pregnant women, those with weakened immune systems, and anyone with infants who have been exposed in the past six days.
Vaccination and Testing Recommendations
Anyone unvaccinated for measles is urged to contact a Public Health Unit within three days of exposure. However, NSW Health emphasizes that individuals showing symptoms, even if they have not visited a listed location, should also get tested. Christine Selvey, director of communicable diseases at NSW Health, stated, "Anyone with early symptoms who gets a rash a few days later should also think about measles, even if they haven't attended one of the identified locations, and seek testing."
She added, "We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. Measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough." This alert underscores the importance of vaccination and vigilance in preventing the spread of measles in the community.
