Tejal Somvanshi
NSW Health has issued an urgent alert for possible measles exposure after an infected traveler from Vietnam visited multiple locations across Sydney. The individual, who arrived on Jetstar flight JQ62 on March 10, was infectious while visiting several public places including Sydney International Airport, cafes, and medical facilities.
This case comes amid a significant measles outbreak in Vietnam, which has reported nearly 40,000 suspected cases and five deaths this year.
Exposure Locations and Times
People who were at the following locations should monitor for symptoms until April 2:
- Jetstar flight JQ62 from Ho Chi Minh City (departed March 9, 10:40 PM, arrived March 10, 11:00 AM)
- Sydney International Airport arrivals and baggage claim (March 10, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- 169 Cafe, Randwick (March 10, 1:30 PM – 2:05 PM)
- Ooshman Maroubra, Pacific Square (March 10, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
- Matraville Medical Complex (March 13, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM; March 14, 1:55 PM – 2:35 PM; March 15, 9:50 AM – 10:50 AM)
- HealthSave Pharmacy, Maroubra (March 13, 1:00 PM – 1:35 PM)
- Prince of Wales Hospital Emergency Department (March 15, 10:15 AM – 1:30 PM)
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Dr. Vicky Sheppeard, Director of Public Health for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, emphasized that measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, runny nose, sore eyes and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body,” she explained.
The incubation period can last up to 18 days after exposure, which is why monitoring should continue until April 2.
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What to Do If You Develop Symptoms
Anyone who develops symptoms should call their GP or emergency department before visiting to ensure they don’t expose others in waiting rooms.
“If they develop symptoms, they should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to ensure they do not spend time in the waiting room with other patients,” Dr. Sheppeard advised.
Vaccination Remains the Best Defense
Health officials stress that vaccination is crucial in preventing measles spread. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is available for free in NSW for:
- Children at 12 and 18 months of age
- Anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t had two doses
“We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough,” said Dr. Sheppeard.
The vaccine is particularly important for those planning international travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions worldwide.
Global Context
This case highlights the global nature of infectious disease spread. Vietnam’s current measles outbreak is part of a broader pattern of measles resurgence in various parts of the world, partly due to disruptions in vaccination campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For parents concerned about children under 12 months traveling overseas, doctors can administer the first MMR dose up to six months early for protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I was at one of the exposure locations? +
Monitor yourself for symptoms until April 2, 2025. Watch for fever, runny nose, sore eyes, cough, and a red blotchy rash. If you develop symptoms, call your doctor or hospital before visiting to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.
How contagious is measles? +
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.
How can I check if I’m fully vaccinated against measles? +
Check your immunization records or contact your healthcare provider. Anyone born after 1965 should have had two doses of the MMR vaccine. If you’re unsure, getting an additional dose is safe.
Can I still get vaccinated if I think I’ve been exposed? +
Yes. The measles vaccine can sometimes prevent the disease even after exposure if given early enough. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you think you’ve been exposed.
Where can I get the MMR vaccine in NSW? +
The MMR vaccine is available from GPs for all ages and from pharmacies for people over 5 years of age. It’s free in NSW for children at 12 and 18 months and for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t had two doses.
How serious is measles for most people? +
While many people recover from measles, it can cause serious complications including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and even death, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
