DISEASE: Measles alert issued for Sydney Airport and two flights

Travellers passing through Sydney Airport, both its domestic and international terminals, are urged to monitor for measles symptoms. This alert comes following confirmation from NSW Health of multiple exposure sites, including two specific flights. The number of current exposure locations has now reached 55.

Flights exposure

Passengers on Jetstar Flight JQ505 (JST505) from Sydney to Melbourne, which departed at 08:00 on 18 February, are advised to be alert for symptoms. Also, Garuda Indonesia Flight GA712 (GIA712) arriving into Sydney from Denpasar at 11:00 on 17 February.

Sydney Airport exposure

Health officials have identified potential exposure at Sydney Airport’s international arrivals and baggage claim areas. The time period is between 11:00 and 13:30 on 17 February. Also, at the international taxi rank between 13:00 and 13:45 the same day. Domestic travellers may also have been exposed in Terminal 2 departures between 05:30 and 08:30 on 18 February.

Several community locations have also been listed. These include Northern Beaches Hospital’s emergency department and Ward 4C on 14 February. Also affected is Brookvale Medical Urgent Care Clinic, and Advanced Health Pharmacy in Bankstown on 17 February.

About measles

Measles is an airborne and highly contagious illness, spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or just breathing in enclosed spaces. Symptoms usually develop between seven and 18 days after exposure. They often begin with fever, runny nose, sore or red eyes and a persistent cough. A red, blotchy rash appears several days later, starting on the face and spreading across the body. Most healthy adults recover, but measles can cause serious complications in young children, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems.

Exposed? What to do

NSW Health is advising anyone who may have been present at the exposure sites to monitor for symptoms for 18 days following potential contact. Travellers who develop symptoms are urged to seek medical advice and call ahead before visiting a clinic to avoid further spread.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who has not received two documented doses. For frequent international travellers, ensuring vaccinations are up to date is one of the simplest and most practical forms of travel protection.

2PAXfly Takeout

Airports are, by nature, shared air spaces. This alert is a reminder that global travel means global exposure. It’s why I bang on about wearing masks on flights and in airports and lounges

The alert also serves as a reminder that measles outbreaks have been occurring in parts of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, a popular destination for Australian travellers. Imported cases remain the most common source of measles in Australia.

Before you check lounge access or seat maps, you might want to check your vaccination record. That prevention may be the most important thing you do in preparation for travel.