Measles Alert Issued for Sydney as Infectious Case Reported in Maroubra

A measles alert has been issued for Sydney after an infectious person visited multiple locations, including Maroubra, while carrying the highly contagious disease. Health authorities warn that individuals who were at specific sites may have been exposed and should monitor for symptoms.

The case involves a traveller who arrived from Vietnam, where a large measles outbreak is ongoing, and later visited several public places in Sydney.

Confirmed Case and Exposure Sites

NSW Health confirmed that the infected person arrived in Sydney on Monday, 10 March, landing at 11 a.m. on Jetstar flight JQ62 from Ho Chi Minh City.

The individual was present at Sydney International Airport’s arrivals terminal and baggage claim until 1 p.m. before proceeding to 169 Cafe in Randwick from 1:30 p.m. to 2:05 p.m. Later that evening, they visited OOSHMAN MAROUBRA at Pacific Square, Maroubra, between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

The person sought medical attention multiple times in the following days. On Thursday, 13 March, they attended the Matraville Medical Complex on Bunnerong Road from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a stop at HealthSave Pharmacy nearby from 1 p.m. to 1:35 p.m.

They returned to Matraville Medical Complex on Friday, 14 March, between 1:55 p.m. and 2:35 p.m. and again on Saturday, 15 March, from 9:50 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. On that same day, they were in the Prince of Wales Hospital emergency department waiting room from 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Health Advisory and Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials are urging anyone who visited these locations at the specified times to watch for symptoms until 2 April 2025, as measles can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and cough, typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head down after a few days.

Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director of Public Health for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, emphasised the importance of calling ahead before visiting a doctor or hospital if symptoms develop. This measure prevents further transmission in medical facilities.

Vaccination and Prevention

Measles is preventable with vaccination, and NSW Health is encouraging people to check their immunisation status. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free for children at 12 and 18 months of age, as well as for anyone born after 1965 who has not received two doses.

Travellers, particularly those heading to regions experiencing outbreaks, are advised to get vaccinated before departure. Parents of children under 12 months planning to travel internationally should consult a GP about receiving the first dose of MMR early.

People who are unsure if they have had both doses of the vaccine should receive an additional dose, as extra vaccinations are safe, according to NSW Health. The MMR vaccine is available through GPs for all ages and at pharmacies for individuals over five years old.

Community Response and Next Steps

NSW Health is working to identify close contacts of the case and has reminded the public that measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The department urges community members in Maroubra, Randwick, and Matraville to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms.

For further information, residents can contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or speak with their GP.

Published 20-March-2025