Given the density of hospitality, healthcare and hostel venues clustered through Potts Point, Darlinghurst and the Sydney CBD, NSW Health has issued a public alert after confirming a case of measles in a returned traveller from Southeast Asia, a region currently experiencing ongoing outbreaks. The infected person visited multiple locations across the three areas while unknowingly infectious, including a healthcare facility and a backpacker’s hostel.
A full list of exposure sites, updated regularly, is available on the NSW Health website. Authorities have confirmed these locations carry no ongoing risk, though anyone who attended during the listed times should monitor for symptoms over the following 18 days.
Vulnerable groups urged to act quickly
People who were exposed within the past six days and who are pregnant, immunocompromised or caring for an exposed infant should contact their local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055. The case brings the state’s confirmed measles total to 51 since 1 January 2026.
In a statement, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District public health physician Dr Anthea Katelaris said that anyone developing symptoms after visiting an exposure site should see a doctor or health service and call ahead first, so clinics can prepare and avoid exposing other patients in waiting areas. Early symptoms include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, typically followed three to four days later by a blotchy red rash spreading from the face down the body.
Because measles spreads through the air via coughing and sneezing, Dr Katelaris said vaccination remains the strongest line of defence, adding that the vaccine can still prevent illness when given soon after exposure. Anyone born after 1965 should confirm they have received two doses, particularly before overseas travel, given active outbreaks across several regions worldwide.
The free MMR vaccine is available for children at 12 and 18 months, and for any unvaccinated person born after 1965. Infants as young as six months can receive an early additional dose ahead of overseas travel, following consultation with a GP. Anyone uncertain of their vaccination history is encouraged to have another dose, as extra doses carry no added risk.
MMR vaccinations are available through GPs for all ages and through pharmacies for people over five. Further guidance is available via the NSW Health measles factsheet and Smartraveller.
