Is There a Measles Alert in Sydney CBD and Airport?
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Synopsis
A measles alert has been declared in central Sydney and its airport following a confirmed case from Queensland. The public is urged to monitor for symptoms after visiting specific locations. With alarming global statistics on measles cases, this situation underscores the vital importance of vaccination coverage.
Key Takeaways
- Measles alert issued for central Sydney and the airport.
- Individuals advised to monitor for symptoms until November 28.
- 153 confirmed cases of measles in Australia in 2025, surpassing past five years combined.
- Importance of vaccination highlighted due to rising cases.
- Global context shows alarming resurgence of measles.
Sydney, Nov 14 (NationPress) Health officials in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, have announced a measles alert for the central region of Sydney and its airport.
On Thursday, NSW Health reported that they received information regarding a confirmed measles case originating from the neighboring state of Queensland, who visited multiple locations in Sydney while infectious from November 8 to 10, which included a concert with an attendance of approximately 70,000 people.
Individuals who were present at various sites, such as the Sydney Airport, the central business district, the concert, and trains in the inner-west of the city during this period are advised to monitor for measles symptoms until November 28, according to Xinhua news agency.
Jeremy McAnulty, the Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, stated that symptoms can manifest up to 18 days following exposure to the virus.
He recommended that anyone exhibiting symptoms like fever, sore eyes, and cough, followed by a rash, should contact their healthcare provider before visiting to minimize exposure to others in waiting areas.
Queensland Health has also indicated that the individual spent time in central Brisbane and at the Brisbane Airport while they were unknowingly infectious.
As per the latest data from the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, there have been 153 confirmed measles cases in Australia so far in 2025, surpassing the 115 cases reported in the previous five years combined.
Out of the 153 cases this year, 30 have been in Queensland and 28 in NSW.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the United States has recorded 1,618 measles cases with three fatalities this year, marking the highest tally since 1992.
Of these, 1,595 cases were reported across 42 domestic jurisdictions, while 23 cases involved international visitors, as stated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on October 22. This figure represents the highest number of US infections since 1992, when the CDC documented 2,126 measles cases.
Out of the confirmed cases this year, 198 (or 12 percent) required hospitalization, including 95 children under five years old. Tragically, three individuals have succumbed to the disease.
According to the CDC, 92 percent of measles cases in the US occurred among individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status.
Public health experts have noted that these statistics highlight a significant resurgence of measles in the US and emphasize the critical need for vaccination coverage.
Point of View
It is imperative for individuals to remain vigilant and informed. The rising incidence of this preventable disease underscores a critical public health challenge that must be addressed collectively.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I have measles?
If you suspect you have measles, contact your doctor immediately before visiting a healthcare facility to prevent spreading the virus.
How can measles be prevented?
Measles can be effectively prevented through vaccination. Ensure you and your family are up to date with your MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccinations.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms of measles typically include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and a rash that usually appears a few days after the initial symptoms.
Who is most at risk for measles?
Individuals who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status are at the highest risk for contracting measles.
How serious is a measles infection?
Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
