Northern Beaches residents are being urged to monitor for measles symptoms following confirmation that an infectious person visited multiple local venues, including Northern Beaches Hospital in Frenchs Forest.
NSW Health has issued an alert after identifying several exposure sites across the Northern Beaches, with health officials expressing particular concern about the shift from overseas-acquired cases to local transmission.
The Northern Beaches Hospital’s Level 4 Education Centre, including Wards 4, 4C, 5B and 6D at 105 Frenchs Forest Road in Frenchs Forest, was attended by an infectious individual between 9.30am and 12.00pm on Monday, 9 March. Those who were present during this time should watch for symptoms until Friday, 27 March.
Several Manly venues have also been identified as exposure sites. Felons Brewing Co. at Manly Wharf was visited on the evening of Thursday, 5 March between 6.30pm and 8.00pm. The same individual travelled by bus from Manly Wharf to Northern Beaches Hospital later that night, between 9.40pm and 10.30pm.
Three additional Manly establishments were visited on Sunday, 8 March: Donny’s Bar on Market Lane from 3.00pm to 5.00pm, Henry G’s Wine Parlour on The Corso from 4.30pm to 7.00pm, and JB & Sons Restaurant on Sydney Road from 7.00pm to 8.40pm.
NSW Health reports that 60 measles cases have been confirmed so far this year, with approximately equal numbers stemming from local transmission and overseas travel, predominantly from south-east Asia.
Dr Stephen Conaty, Public Health Unit Director for South Western Sydney Local Health District, emphasised the importance of symptom monitoring for anyone who attended the listed locations during the specified times.
Residents should watch for initial symptoms including fever, sore eyes, runny nose and cough, typically followed three to four days later by a distinctive red, blotchy rash that begins on the head and face before spreading across the body.
Health authorities stress that symptoms can appear up to 18 days after exposure, making extended vigilance essential.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their doctor or health service before attending in person. Dr Conaty advised people to telephone ahead to alert staff of potential measles exposure, preventing time spent in waiting rooms where other patients could be at risk.
The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine remains the most effective prevention method and is provided free in NSW for children at 12 and 18 months of age. Adults born after 1965 who have not received two doses are also eligible for free vaccination.
Those uncertain about their vaccination history can safely receive the vaccine regardless of previous doses, with vaccinations available through general practitioners for all ages and pharmacies for those over five.
Health officials note that post-exposure vaccination can prevent disease development if administered promptly.
For measles information or to discuss symptoms, residents can contact their GP or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. Updated exposure site listings and detailed measles information are available on the NSW Health website.
Published 16-March-2026
