Sydneysiders have been warned that measles is likely circulating in the city, more than a decade after Australia eliminated the highly infectious and potentially deadly disease.
NSW Health reported that a local resident contracted the virus despite not having travelled overseas or visited any known exposure sites in Sydney. Because the source of infection remains unknown, authorities believe the disease may be spreading through the community.
“With the source of the infection unknown, it is likely measles is currently circulating within the community, and others may have been unknowingly exposed,” NSW Health said. Residents have been urged to ensure they are up to date with vaccinations and to remain alert for symptoms.
“Symptoms to watch for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and cough, usually followed three to four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body,” said Dr. Mitchell Smith, public health director of the South Western Sydney Local Health District. “It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after exposure. Anyone showing symptoms should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.”
The warning follows NSW Health alerts last week regarding potential exposure at a sold-out Oasis concert in Sydney on November 8 and a Jelly Roll gig in Brisbane on October 24.
Measles is one of the most contagious human diseases and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and acute encephalitis. According to the Australian Centre for Disease Control, nine out of ten people near an infected individual will contract the virus through direct contact, coughing, sneezing, or even simply breathing the same air.
The measles vaccine, which is free in Australia for children at 12 and 18 months, is highly effective, providing long-term protection against infection in 99 percent of people. Between 2000 and 2020, the World Health Organization estimates the vaccine saved nearly 32 million lives.
“Anyone born after 1965 should ensure they have received two doses of the measles vaccine,” Dr. Smith said. Vaccination is particularly important before international travel, as outbreaks are occurring worldwide. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is also available free in NSW for those unsure of their vaccination status, and additional doses are safe.
Although vaccination helped eliminate measles in many countries, including Australia in 2014, rising anti-vaccine sentiment has led to renewed outbreaks globally. Canada, declared measles-free in 1998, is now experiencing thousands of cases, and infections in the United States are approaching 2,000.
