Measles Exposure Warning Issued for Newcastle and Lake Mac Residents

newy.com.au – Health authorities are urging residents across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to be vigilant for measles symptoms following confirmation of three infectious cases linked to several public locations in the region.

Hunter New England Local Health District confirmed on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, that one of the cases had recently returned from Vietnam, a country currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak. The individual, who was unvaccinated, and the two others infected are known to each other.

While the risk at the specific venues has now passed, individuals who visited the following locations during the stated times are advised to monitor for signs of measles for 21 days after exposure:

• Charlestown soccer ground on Saturday, 1 March 2025, from 2pm to 5pm

• Belmont Hospital Emergency Department on Monday, 10 March 2025 (10:30am–8:30pm) and Sunday, 23 March 2025 (11am–6pm)

• Go Vita Lake Haven shopping centre on Sunday, 2 March 2025 (11am–2pm) and Sunday, 16 March 2025 (10am–4pm)

• Go Vita Mount Hutton shopping centre on Monday, 17 March 2025, from 11am to 5pm

Dr David Durrheim, Director of Public Health at Hunter New England Health, explained that measles spreads easily through the air and that early symptoms may resemble a cold—fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and a cough, before a tell-tale red blotchy rash appears a few days later.

“Anyone who was at the listed locations should watch for symptoms for up to three weeks after their visit,” Dr Durrheim said. “If symptoms develop, it’s essential to call your GP or hospital in advance to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.”

Dr Durrheim also urged the community to check their vaccination status, particularly those born after 1965 who may not have had the recommended two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The vaccine is provided free in New South Wales for children at 12 and 18 months, and for anyone born after 1965 who needs a catch-up dose.

Babies under 12 months can also receive their first dose earlier if travelling overseas, and the MMR vaccine is available at GP clinics and pharmacies (for those over 5 years old).

Health authorities emphasise that it’s safe to receive an extra dose if unsure of past vaccinations. For more information or if you experience symptoms, contact your GP or call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.