Advertisement
Home Health

Aussie city on alert for measles

NSW Health is further urging Sydneysiders to be on the lookout for symptoms of measles as two more people have been diagnosed with the highly contagious disease.

Following reports that an overseas traveller visiting Sydney had been diagnosed with measles earlier this month, NSW Health have confirmed that another two people have also contracted the airborne disease.

Advertisement

Worryingly, NSW Health state that each of these three people have “spent considerable time in the Sydney metropolitan area while infectious”, prompting the government body to issue another Christmas measles warning.

Each of three people diagnosed with measles visited multiple locations across the city, between November 26 and December 15, such as:

  • Inner-city hospital emergency departments

  • Restaurants and shops in the CBD, Ultimo, Bondi, Bondi Junction, Leichardt, Double Bay, Chatswood and Marrickville

  • Public transport on routes in the centre, north and east of the city

  • GP clinics and medical centres in George Street, Sydney, Darlinghurst, Leichardt, Camperdown and Bondi

Signs and symptoms of measles typically include:

  • Dry cough

  • Fever

  • Runny nose

  • Sore eyes

  • A cough

These symptoms are then followed by a red and blotchy skin rash that appears first on the face and hairline, and then spreads to the body about 3-4 days later.

Advertisement

Measles can cause serious, sometimes fatal, complications like pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

Parents of infants or others who are not fully vaccinated against measles have been advised to watch for any symptoms.

If you, or someone you know, is showing symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately.

Related stories


Unwind and relax with your favourite magazine!

Huge savings plus FREE home delivery

Advertisement
Advertisement