Lismore is the latest location in a series of measles alerts issued by the Northern NSW Local Health District, as exposure sites across the North Coast continue to grow following confirmed cases in Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay earlier in February.
Health authorities say an infectious person attended the emergency department at Lismore Base Hospital on Saturday, February 21, between 5.45pm and 11.20pm. Community members who may have been exposed are being urged to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms.
“Anyone who visited the hospital during this time should monitor for symptoms which can take up to 18 days to develop after exposure.” said Regional Director of North Coast Population and Public Health Dr Valerie Delpech.
To limit the spread of infection, residents are also encouraged to regularly check the list of exposure sites on the NSW Health website.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with fever, sore eyes, a cough and runny nose, followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. In some cases, the virus can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
“If you do develop symptoms, call ahead to your GP or Emergency Department so you don’t spend time in the waiting room with other patients, and be sure to wear a face mask to your appointment,” Dr Delpech said.
Measles can be particularly serious for people who are unvaccinated or have weakened immune systems. Anyone who is unvaccinated, pregnant or immunocompromised and believes they have been exposed to measles is advised to contact their local public health unit on 1300 066 055.
There have been 21 measles cases recorded across NSW in 2026, with vaccination rates declining and the risk of infection increasing.
“Measles is vaccine preventable and we urge everyone to check their vaccination status,” Dr Delpech said.
NSW Health says most cases reported in the state to 22 February 2026 have been among unvaccinated adults aged 32–59.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for children at 12 months and 18 months of age. HealthStats NSW data shows immunisation rates are broadly similar across local health districts, except in Northern NSW where coverage is lower across all age groups.
“It’s deeply concerning to see coverage slip in recent years, putting strain on emergency departments and risking re-emergence of serious diseases like measles, with life altering complications,” said Australian Medical Association president Dr Danielle McMullen.
“Vaccines have saved countless lives in Australia, reducing deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases by 99%.”
“A simple conversation with your GP can address any concerns about vaccinations and protect your family, strengthen your community and save lives.”
Measles was common in Australia until vaccination was added to childhood immunisation programs in the 1970s. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended, and vaccination is free for NSW residents born after 1965.
“Vaccination can prevent the disease even after exposure if given promptly enough,” Dr Delpech said.
Public health responses to outbreaks focus on quickly identifying and isolating infected people to reduce further spread.
Measles transmission has also been linked to international travel, and travellers are advised to check their vaccination status before leaving Australia.
“The Lismore case had recently returned from Asia where there are ongoing outbreaks across several countries,” Dr Delpech said.
Northern NSW Local Health District advises that people unsure whether they have received two doses of the vaccine can safely receive additional doses. Children travelling internationally can also receive their first MMR dose up to six months earlier than usual if they are under 12 months of age.
“Globally, immunisation is the most successful and cost-effective health intervention, preventing between two and three million deaths each year,” Dr McMullen said.
MMR vaccination is available from GPs and pharmacies for residents aged over five.
Further information about health risks at overseas destinations is available on the SmartTraveller website.
Health authorities stress that exposure sites listed on the NSW Health website do not pose an ongoing risk.
Anyone experiencing measles symptoms, or seeking advice, should contact their GP or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
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