Health authorities in New South Wales and South Australia have issued urgent public health warnings following confirmation that infectious measles patients visited multiple high-traffic locations. The cases involve two adults who recently returned from trips to South-East Asia, where significant outbreaks are ongoing.
Exposure Sites Across Two States
In New South Wales, a confirmed case visited several Sydney locations while contagious. NSW Health has listed specific exposure sites and times, urging anyone present to monitor for symptoms.
The locations include:
- December 29: Qantas flight QF748 from Adelaide to Sydney, arriving at 10.30pm, and the Sydney Airport Domestic Terminal 3 arrivals hall from 10:30pm to 11pm. Individuals should watch for symptoms until January 16.
- January 3: Concord Repatriation General Hospital Emergency Department from 1pm to 4.10pm. Monitor for symptoms until January 21.
Acting Director of Public Health for Western Sydney Local Health District, Conrad Moreira, stated that two other recent NSW cases also visited sites across northern and western Sydney.
In South Australia, a separate case in an adult led to alerts for several busy venues. SA Health confirmed the following exposure sites:
- December 26: Marion Westfield Shopping Centre (7.15pm–7.55pm & 10.40pm–11.20pm) and Event Cinemas Marion (7.15pm–11.10pm).
- December 28: Cockles Cafe in Port Elliot from 12pm to 1.30pm.
- December 29: Adelaide Airport from 6.40pm to 8pm and Qantas flight QF748 from Adelaide to Sydney, departing at 7.30pm.
SA Health advises anyone not fully immunised who was at these locations to watch for symptoms for up to 18 days after exposure.
A Spike in Imported Cases Prompts Vaccination Warning
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. The recent spike in imported cases in both states serves as a critical reminder for travellers to ensure they are fully vaccinated before overseas trips.
Conrad Moreira emphasised, "Anyone born after 1965 should have had two doses of the measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel."
In South Australia, seven measles cases were reported last year. The state funds free vaccination for adults born during or after 1966 who have not received two doses, as well as for children aged six to 12 months who are travelling overseas.
What to Do If You Develop Symptoms
Early measles symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed several days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads.
Health authorities issue a crucial instruction: Anyone who develops symptoms must phone their general practitioner or the emergency department ahead of any visit. This step is vital to prevent exposing other people in waiting rooms.
The public is urged to check their vaccination status immediately, particularly if they have plans to travel internationally or may have been exposed at the listed locations.
