There has been a measles case confirmed in Sutherland Shire after a returned traveller visit. The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is the best line of defence. Picture supplied

Residents across Sutherland Shire are being urged to stay vigilant following a confirmed case of measles in a returned traveller from south-east Asia.

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NSW Health has identified several exposure sites where the individual was present while unknowingly infectious, marking a significant addition to the 47 cases recorded across the state since the beginning of 2026.

Specific locations of concern in the Shire include the Kareela Village Medical Centre and the Laverty Pathology Collection Centre (13 Freya Street) on Tuesday, May 5, between 11:25 am and 12:45 pm, and again on Thursday, May 7, from 9:15 am to 11:00 am.

Visitors to Southgate Shopping Centre in Sylvania, including the Suzanne Grae outlet, on Tuesday, May 5, between 4pm and 5pm should also be on alert.

Additionally, Caringbah Auto Repairs and Service (CARS) on Box Road was visited on Monday, May 4 (8am - 8am) and Tuesday, May 5 (3:30pm - 4:10pm). Depending on the date of attendance, people are advised to monitor for symptoms until May 25.

Anthea Katelaris, Public Health Physician for the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, said symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear. Initial signs typically include a fever, sore eyes, runny nose, and cough, followed a few days later by a distinctive red, blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. If you develop symptoms, Dr Katelaris advises calling your GP or emergency department ahead of time so they can make arrangements to keep you out of the general waiting room, preventing further spread.

While these sites do not pose an continuing risk, certain groups must act quickly. If you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have an infant who was at these locations, you should contact the Public Health Unit urgently on 1300 066 055, as treatments can be effective if administered within six days of exposure.

The outbreak serves as a reminder that measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air. The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is the best line of defence and is free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn't received two doses. If you are planning overseas travel or are unsure of your vaccination status, health officials recommend visiting a GP or pharmacy, as additional doses are safe and highly effective at preventing the disease even after a known exposure.