General News
6 June, 2026
Measles alert issued for Cairns
RESIDENTS are being urged to monitor for symptoms of measles after a confirmed case visited several locations across Cairns between 29 and 31 May.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service has issued a public health alert for people who were at several locations during specified times, including a flight from Sydney to Cairns, public bus services, Chemist Warehouse on McLeod Street, Coles at Cairns Central Shopping Centre and the Cairns Hospital Emergency Department.
Members of the public who were at the listed locations have been advised to watch for symptoms over the next three weeks. Health authorities said the locations pose no ongoing risk.
Cairns Public Health Unit physician Dr Tonia Marquardt said measles was highly infectious.
“Symptoms of measles typically appear about 10 days after exposure but can develop anytime between 7 and 18 days after contact with the virus. If you were in the identified areas during the specified times, it’s important to monitor for symptoms until 18 June,” Dr Marquardt said.
Measles usually begins as a flu-like illness. Symptoms include fever, tiredness, severe cough, runny nose, red or sore eyes, white spots in the mouth and a blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. The rash is often not the first symptom to appear.
Dr Marquardt urged anyone who develops symptoms to seek medical advice before attending a healthcare facility.
“If you develop symptoms, it’s crucial to call ahead to your GP or emergency department for advice. Do not visit a waiting room or attend healthcare facilities without prior notice, as this could put others at risk,” she said.
She also encouraged residents to check their vaccination status.
“Please check your vaccination status and, if you are not already immune, consider visiting your GP to receive the measles vaccine. The vaccine is free for Australian residents,” Dr Marquardt said.
Health authorities said anyone born during or after 1966 should ensure they have received two doses of the measles vaccine to be fully protected, particularly if planning overseas travel. Australia has recorded several measles cases linked to international travel this year.
For more information about measles or vaccination status, residents are advised to visit the Queensland Health website or contact their GP.
