Know the symptoms for measles. Photo: Stock image.
Northern NSW Local Health District has been notified of a confirmed measles case who was unknowingly infectious while visiting Lismore Base Hospital.
The case had recently returned from Asia where there are ongoing outbreaks of measles in several countries.
People who were at Lismore Base Hospital, Emergency Department, 5.45pm—11.20pm on Saturday, February 21, should be aware of measles symptoms.
If it has been less than six days since the exposure at this location and you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system or have an infant who was exposed, you are advised to contact your local public health unit on 1300 066 055.
There is currently an increased risk of measles in NSW, with 21 cases confirmed since January 1.
North Coast Population and Public Health regional director Dr Valerie Delpech said anyone who visited the above location at those times should monitor for symptoms.
“Measles is a vaccine preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” Dr Delpech said.
“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, 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.
“Anyone with early symptoms who gets a rash a few days later should also think about measles, even if they haven’t attended one of the identified locations and seek testing.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it’s important for people who visited this location to look out for symptoms up until March 12.
“If they develop symptoms, they should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to ensure they do not spend time in the waiting room with other patients.”
Dr Delpech said anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. 
The MMR vaccine is free for anyone bron after 1965.
“This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment.”
Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective and is recommended for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t already had two doses.
Children under the age of 12 months can have their first dose of MMR up to 6 months early if they are travelling overseas. Parents should consult their GP.
People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).
For more information on measles, view the measles factsheet here.
If you, are experiencing measles symptoms, or have questions about measles, please call your GP or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
This information was provided by the NNSWLHD.