Measles alert issued for the Mid North Coast as four new cases are confirmed across NSW, including one in Coffs Harbour. Residents are urged to stay vigilant for measles symptoms and seek medical advice if exposure is suspected.
Infected individuals were present at the following locations during these times:
- Sunday, 8 February: Hyde Café, Bellingen, 10:45 am–11:40 am
- Monday, 9 February: Coffs Harbour Emergency Department, 6:00 am–5:00 pm
- Tuesday, 10 February: Toormina Woolworths, 7:45 am–8:40 am; Toormina Road Vet Clinic, 9:30 am–11:00 am; Coles, Earl Street, Coffs Harbour, 1:40 pm–2:30 pm
Authorities note that these venues do not present an ongoing risk.
Dr. Valerie Delpech, Director of Public Health for the Mid North Coast Local Health District, emphasized that anyone who visited these sites at the listed times should monitor for symptoms. Measles symptoms can appear up to 18 days after exposure and spread via airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Measles is preventable through vaccination. We encourage everyone to ensure their vaccines are up to date. The measles vaccine can still prevent disease after exposure if administered promptly. People born after 1965 should have received two doses of the measles-containing vaccine. This is particularly crucial before international travel, as outbreaks are currently reported in multiple regions worldwide.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective. In NSW, it is freely offered to children at 12 and 18 months of age, and is free for anyone born after 1965 who has not yet completed two doses. Children under 12 months may receive an MMR dose if traveling overseas.
Dr. Christine Selvey, NSW Director of Communicable Diseases, noted that NSW has recorded 14 confirmed measles cases since 1 January. Among the four latest cases, three were contracted within NSW, while one involved a returned traveler from Southeast Asia amid ongoing outbreaks there.
If you have visited any of the exposure locations and develop symptoms, see a clinician or visit an emergency department. To reduce exposure in waiting areas, call ahead to inform staff you may have been exposed to measles.
Common symptoms to watch for include fever, runny nose, red eyes, and cough, followed by a blotchy red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward over the body.
For the latest exposure locations and times, check the NSW Health public exposure pages at health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/measles/Pages/public-exposure-locations.aspx. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, speak with your GP or contact healthdirect at 1800 022 222.
By Sis Higgins
