Tejal Somvanshi
NSW Health has issued a measles alert for Sydney’s north western suburbs after confirming a case where an infected person visited Umaya Restaurant in Macquarie Shopping Centre.
The infected individual, who recently returned from Indonesia where an active measles outbreak is occurring, was at the restaurant on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, between 11:30am and 1:15pm.
Health officials emphasize that anyone who visited Umaya during this specific timeframe should monitor for symptoms until Saturday, October 4, 2025. The location itself poses no ongoing risk to the public.
“Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” said Dr. Michael Staff, Northern Sydney Local Health District Director of Public Health.
Symptoms develop in stages, beginning with fever, sore eyes, and a cough. Three to four days later, a red, blotchy rash typically appears, starting from the head and neck before spreading to the rest of the body.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after exposure, so it’s really important for people who visited this location to watch for symptoms until October 4,” Dr. Staff explained.
Anyone developing symptoms should call ahead to their GP or emergency department before visiting, to prevent exposing others in waiting rooms.
The alert serves as a reminder for everyone to check their measles vaccination status. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine are recommended for anyone born in 1966 or later.
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MMR vaccines are free for children at 12 and 18 months of age in NSW. They’re also free for anyone born in 1966 or after who hasn’t already received two doses. Getting additional doses is safe for those unsure of their vaccination history.
Parents planning overseas travel with children under 12 months can request an early MMR dose from six months of age by consulting their GP.
The vaccine is available from GPs for people of all ages and from pharmacies for those over 5 years old. Health officials note that even after exposure, the measles vaccine may still prevent the disease if given early enough.
This alert is one of several issued by NSW Health throughout 2025, reflecting the department’s ongoing monitoring and contact tracing efforts.
For those exposed at Umaya Restaurant, health officials recommend:
- Watching for early symptoms like fever, sore eyes, and cough
- Being alert for the distinctive rash that follows days later
- Calling ahead before visiting a doctor if symptoms develop
- Checking vaccination records and getting updated if needed
Dr. Staff stressed the importance of vaccination, particularly before international travel, as measles outbreaks continue in several regions worldwide. Those with questions about measles symptoms can call their GP or contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for advice.
NSW Health maintains a current list of measles exposure locations across the state for public reference, helping residents stay informed about potential risks in their area.
