Warning as measles outbreak spreads to Sydney’s north

Doctors are warning people in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Parramatta to watch for measles symptoms following the confirmation of a new case.

The Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) today issued an alert after a Northern Beaches man contracted the illness over the weekend, most likely after a visit to Melbourne.

The man visited several locations in Sydney’s north and Parramatta while infectious, including Warringah Mall in Brookvale, Cromer, Manly Vale and Parramatta between September 23 and 26.

The case comes amid a worsening measles outbreak in Melbourne, with Victorian health authorities reporting 11 diagnosed cases in the past two weeks.

“Infectious people (have visited) a number of locations including the central business district, the MCG and Melbourne Airport,” NSLHD public health director Dr Michael Staff said.

“It’s very important to prevent further spread of this serious illness.”

Dr Staff urged anyone who had visited the Sydney locations to be aware of symptoms - including fever, sore eyes and a cough followed by a non-itchy rash - to seek medical attention if they become unwell.

“The measles virus is highly contagious and is spread through the air by someone who is unwell with the disease,” he said.

“People with measles symptoms should stay home from school or work and not go out in public.

“We recommend medical attention be sought, but if you or your child shows these symptoms you should call the doctor’s surgery before you go in so they can make arrangements to see you without the risk of you spreading the virus to other people."