Measles alert for Potts Point, Darlinghurst and Sydney CBD

NSW Health has issued a measles warning for people who were in Potts Point, Darlinghurst and the Sydney CBD after a confirmed case visited multiple locations while unknowingly infectious.

The alert covers a string of exposure sites in central Sydney, including at least one healthcare facility and a backpackers hostel, according to live reporting. NSW Health says the full list of locations and times is published on its website.

Public health physician Dr Anthea Katelaris said people who visited the listed sites should watch for symptoms and seek medical help promptly if they become unwell. Anyone who develops symptoms is being urged to call ahead before attending a doctor, health service or emergency department so staff can prepare for a possible measles exposure.

What to watch for

Symptoms highlighted in the alert include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and cough, followed by a red blotchy rash that usually appears three or four days later.

Measles is highly contagious and can spread before a diagnosis is made, which is why health authorities move quickly once an infectious person is identified in public places.

Why this alert matters

The warning comes amid a broader rise in measles activity in NSW. The Guardian’s live coverage said there have been 51 confirmed measles cases in the state since 1 January 2026.

The exposure sites are concentrated in dense inner-city neighbourhoods with heavy foot traffic, making rapid symptom recognition and isolation especially important for limiting further spread.

What happens next

NSW Health may update the exposure-site list as contact tracing continues. Authorities could also publish additional warnings if more linked cases are confirmed.

People who think they may have been exposed are advised to monitor for symptoms over the relevant incubation period and seek care promptly if those symptoms appear.