NSW Health confirms measles case in western Sydney with no known source
Residents are being urged to be on alert after an infectious person moved through multiple locations.
NSW Health is urging people in Sydney’s west to be on alert after a confirmed measles case was detected with no known source, raising concerns the virus is now circulating in the community.
The infected person had no contact with any known measles cases and did not attend any recognised exposure sites before falling ill — a sign others may have been unknowingly exposed.
Health authorities say the person moved through multiple locations across Western Sydney — including healthcare facilities — while infectious.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.A full list of exposure sites is available on the NSW Health website and is being updated as new information comes in.
Current sites include emergency departments at Auburn Hospital, Campbelltown Hospital and Westmead Hospital.
People who were at those locations are being told to watch for symptoms, although the sites no longer pose an ongoing risk.
Those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have an infant exposed within the past six days are being advised to seek medical advice from their GP, who can liaise with the local Public Health Unit.
NSW has recorded 23 measles cases since January 1, prompting renewed warnings as the virus continues to reappear across the state.
Western Sydney Local Health District Public Health Physician Dr Conrad Moreira said anyone who visited the listed locations should monitor their health closely.
“If symptoms develop and you’ve been at one of the locations at the time listed, see your doctor or an emergency department — but call ahead so you don’t sit in waiting rooms with other patients,” Moreira said.
Early symptoms include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, followed several days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face down the body.
Moreira said people should consider measles even if they didn’t attend an identified exposure site, especially if a rash appears a few days after early symptoms.
The incubation period can be up to 18 days, meaning people exposed could still develop symptoms over the coming weeks.
Originally published on 7NEWS
