Health authorities have issued an urgent alert after confirming a new measles case in Sydney, with multiple exposure sites across the eastern and south-western suburbs. The case, linked to travel from Vietnam, has prompted concerns due to the current measles outbreak in Southeast Asia.
Latest Exposure Sites Revealed
NSW Health has confirmed the infected person travelled on Jetstar flight JQ62 from Ho Chi Minh City, arriving in Sydney on Monday, 10 March. Passengers on this flight and visitors to several Sydney locations are now being urged to monitor for symptoms
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Director of Public Health, says the infected individual visited multiple locations including Sydney International Airport, a café in Randwick, and later attended the Prince of Wales Hospital Emergency Department.
“We’re particularly concerned about people who were present at these locations during specific timeframes,” Dr Sheppeard said. “The virus can take up to 18 days to present symptoms, so vigilance is crucial until early April.”
Strong Protection Despite Global Outbreaks
Despite the current alert, Australian health experts remain confident in the nation’s strong vaccination coverage. Recent data shows more than 93 per cent of five-year-olds are fully vaccinated, providing robust community protection against potential outbreaks
However, Dr Sheppeard warns against complacency. “While our vaccination rates are high, there are still pockets of vulnerability, particularly in communities with frequent international travel connections.”
Community Response and Resources
The alert has sparked particular concern in Sydney’s south-west, home to one of Australia’s largest Vietnamese communities. Local medical centres are preparing for increased vaccination checks and consultations.
“Anyone who develops symptoms should call ahead before visiting their GP or emergency department,” emphasises Dr Sheppeard. “This simple step helps prevent transmission in waiting rooms.”
Vaccination Push
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine remains freely available to several groups, including:
- Children receiving routine vaccinations at 12 and 18 months
- Anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t received two doses
- Those planning international travel
Recent surveillance data has highlighted some concerning trends, with only 13.6 per cent of areas achieving the optimal 95 per cent coverage for the second MMR dose. This has prompted renewed calls for vaccination awareness, particularly in communities with strong international connections.
What to Watch For
Health authorities advise that early measles symptoms typically mirror those of a common cold – fever, runny nose, and sore eyes. However, these symptoms are usually followed by a distinctive red, blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body within days
Travel Advisory
With ongoing measles outbreaks reported across Southeast Asia, NSW Health is strongly advising all travellers to check their vaccination status before departure. This is particularly crucial for those planning visits to Vietnam, Thailand, or Indonesia, where current outbreaks are active
“The current situation serves as a timely reminder of the importance of vaccination, especially before international travel,” Dr Sheppeard noted. “The MMR vaccine can provide protection even after exposure if administered early enough.”
For immediate health advice, residents can contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or consult their local GP. NSW Health continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
For more information on measles, view the measles factsheet.
This story was compiled from multiple sources including NSW Health Media Releases, National Health Data, and expert interviews. Last updated 18 March 2025.
