South Australian health authorities are urging Adelaide residents to stay alert after a confirmed case of measles was detected in an adult who acquired the infection locally.
SA Health says the individual visited several locations across Adelaide while infectious in late January. While these sites do not pose an ongoing risk, people who were present at the listed times may have been exposed and are advised to monitor their health closely over the coming weeks.
Measles is one of the most contagious viral infections, spreading easily through the air and capable of causing serious complications. Early symptoms often begin with fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and general fatigue, before progressing to a distinctive blotchy rash that typically starts on the head and spreads down the body. In some cases, measles can lead to severe illness, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain.
Anyone who was at the exposure locations and is not fully immunised is being asked to watch for symptoms and seek medical advice if they feel unwell. Importantly, people who suspect measles should call their doctor before attending in person, so appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent further spread.
This is the second measles case reported in South Australia this year, following seven cases notified statewide in 2025. Health authorities say vaccination remains the most effective protection, with two doses required for full immunity.
Measles vaccination is routinely provided to children under the National Immunisation Program, and South Australia also funds free measles vaccines for adults born during or after 1966 who have not received two documented doses. Additional funded doses are available for infants aged six to under 12 months who are travelling overseas.
Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination records and speak with their GP if they are unsure of their immunity status.
Exposure locations and times
People may have been exposed if they were at the following locations during these times:
• Adelaide Metro Tram from Forestville to Royal Adelaide Hospital — 27 January, 9:42 am
• Adelaide Metro Tram from Royal Adelaide Hospital to South Terrace — 27 January, 10:11 am
• BHP, 10 Franklin Street, Adelaide — 27 January, 9:45 am to 5:30 pm
• Rolls n Rice, 6/118 King William Street, Adelaide — 27 January, 12:45 pm to 1:30 pm
• 48 Flavours, 248 Unley Road, Hyde Park — 27 January, 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• Unley Swimming Centre, Ethel Street, Forestville — 26 January, 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm
For further advice and vaccination information, visit www.sahealth.sa.gov.au.
