Sydney’s major transport and healthcare facilities have been put on high alert as New South Wales (NSW) records its third measles case in travelers returning from Southeast Asia. Visitors to the Qantas arrival hall at Terminal 3 between 10:30 PM and 11:00 PM on December 29, along with passengers on flight QF748 from Adelaide to Sydney arriving at the same time, are being urged to monitor for symptoms of the potentially deadly disease.
Additionally, individuals who attended the Concord Repatriation General Hospital Emergency Department between 1:00 PM and 4:10 PM on January 3 are also advised to remain vigilant. This alert follows a third measles case reported among travelers returning to Sydney after visiting countries in Southeast Asia, where ongoing outbreaks are causing concern.
Widespread Exposure Sites Identified
NSW Health has identified more than 50 potential exposure sites, including restaurants, train services, Woolworths in Sydney’s east and north, multiple hospitals, Sydney Airport’s international arrival terminal, and a child play area. The exposure window spans from December 3 to January 3.
Visitors to the domestic arrivals hall and the Qantas flight are advised to monitor for symptoms until January 16, while those who visited Concord Hospital during the exposure window should remain alert until January 21. Health officials have assured that there is no continuing risk of exposure at any of the sites.
Understanding Measles and Its Risks
Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 10 days after exposure and initially resemble the flu, including tiredness, fever, cough, runny nose, and sore, red eyes. A rash may develop within a few days.
Complications occur in about one-third of infected individuals, potentially requiring hospitalization for conditions such as ear infections, diarrhea, and pneumonia. In severe cases, measles can lead to serious illness or even death.
Health Officials Urge Vaccination
Dr. Conrad Moreira, Acting Director of Public Health for the Western Sydney Local Health District, emphasized the importance of vaccination in light of the recent surge in cases.
“The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough,” she said. “This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious.”
Dr. Moreira highlighted the necessity for individuals born after 1965 to ensure they have received two doses of the measles vaccine, particularly before traveling overseas, as outbreaks are currently occurring in several regions worldwide.
Travel and Vaccination Recommendations
With popular tourist destinations such as Indonesia (including Bali), Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines experiencing measles outbreaks, vaccination is crucial. Children as young as six months can receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine if traveling overseas, and it is also safe for children aged 12 to 18 months. The vaccine is free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t had two doses.
Looking Ahead
The alert serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vaccination and awareness, especially as international travel resumes post-pandemic. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official health advisories and ensure their vaccinations are up to date, particularly if planning to travel to regions with ongoing measles outbreaks.
