Measles Alert Lismore Hospital Exposure

Measles alert Lismore has been issued after a confirmed case visited Lismore Base Hospital while unknowingly infectious, prompting health authorities to warn the community to monitor for symptoms.

The alert was released by Northern NSW Local Health District after the case, who had recently returned from Asia, attended the Emergency Department at Lismore Base Hospital.

Health officials confirmed there is no ongoing risk at the hospital, however people present at the identified location and time should remain vigilant.

Exposure Details Confirmed

The exposure site and timeframe are:

Saturday, 21 February 2026
Lismore Base Hospital – Emergency Department
5:45pm to 11:20pm

Authorities advise anyone who was at the Emergency Department during those hours to monitor for symptoms until 12 March 2026, as measles symptoms can take up to 18 days to appear.

New exposure sites may be added to the NSW Health website as investigations continue.

Increased Measles Risk in NSW

There is currently an elevated measles risk across the state, with 21 confirmed cases in NSW since 1 January 2026.

Regional Director of North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Valerie Delpech, said people who attended the hospital during the exposure window should carefully monitor their health.

“Measles is a vaccine preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” Dr Delpech said.

Symptoms to Watch For

Early symptoms of measles include:

• Fever
• Sore or red eyes
• Runny nose
• Persistent cough

These symptoms are usually followed three to four days later by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and head before spreading across the body.

Dr Delpech stressed that anyone who develops early symptoms and later a rash should seek medical testing — even if they did not attend the identified exposure site.

Importantly, individuals who develop symptoms should call ahead to their GP or hospital before attending, to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Advice for Vulnerable Groups

If it has been less than six days since exposure and a person is:

• Pregnant
• Immunocompromised
• Caring for an exposed infant

they should contact their local public health unit immediately on 1300 066 055 for advice.

Vaccination Remains Key Protection

Health authorities are reminding the community to ensure vaccinations are up to date.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is:

• Recommended at 12 months and 18 months of age
• Free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who has not received two doses
• Available from GPs for all ages
• Available from pharmacies for people over five years

Children under 12 months can receive their first MMR dose up to six months early if travelling overseas. Parents should consult their GP.

People unsure of their vaccination history are advised to receive another dose, as additional MMR vaccinations are safe.

Travel Advisory

The confirmed case had recently travelled to Asia, where outbreaks are ongoing in several countries. Authorities recommend checking health advice before overseas travel, particularly via the Australian Government’s Smart Traveller website.

Anyone experiencing symptoms or seeking advice can contact their GP or call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

With cases rising across NSW, health officials are urging Northern Rivers residents to stay alert, check vaccination status and monitor symptoms carefully in the coming weeks.

From the Northern Rivers Times News Desk