An emergency health warning is being issued over fears Australians have been exposed to measles in Sydney

Australians have been warned to watch for measles symptoms after an infected traveler visited several locations in Sydney while contagious.

NSW Health has highlighted three specific locations in the city’s west visited by the sick Australian, who recently returned from South East Asia.

The high-risk locations were Metro Petroleum at 379 Enmore Road on Thursday, November 7 between 6:15 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.; Philter Brewing Public Bar at 92-98 Sydenham Road in Marrickville between 6.30pm and 10pm on the same day; and Marrickville Medical Center at 5/296 Marrickville Road on Sunday, November 10 between 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.

“While these locations do not pose an ongoing risk, if you, or anyone you know, has visited the above locations at those times, you should monitor for symptoms,” said Dr Isabel Hess, acting director of public health for the Sydney Local Health District .

‘Symptoms to look out for include fever, sore eyes and coughing, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body.

‘It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure. So it is important that people who have visited these locations monitor for symptoms through November 28, 2024.”

The rash associated with measles typically manifests on the face and top of the neck within seven to 18 days of infection.

It typically spreads over three days and lasts for five to six days.

People who have visited Sydney’s inner west have been urged to watch for measles symptoms

It can take up to 18 days for measles symptoms, including a rash (pictured), to appear after exposure

Complications of the disease include blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhea and dehydration, ear infections and severe breathing problems.

Anyone who develops symptoms is urged to notify their GP or emergency department prior to visiting to prevent further infection.

Dr. Hess urged all Australians to stay up to date with their measles vaccinations amid several global outbreaks.

Those who are unsure if they have already had two doses should get a vaccine because additional doses are safe.

“The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure if given early enough,” Dr. Hess said.

‘This should be a reminder to everyone to check they are protected against the highly contagious measles.

‘Anyone born after 1965 must ensure they have had two doses of the measles vaccine.

‘This is especially important before traveling abroad as measles outbreaks are currently occurring in several parts of the world.’

The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is free for children aged 12 and 18 months and in NSW free for anyone born after 1965 who has not had two doses.