Two Aussie states on high alert after infectious overseas measles traveller

Two states are scrambling after a person infected with measles overseas travelled on a domestic flight between two Australian cities.

The infected adult visited a number of Adelaide locations in late December before travelling to Sydney on Qantas flight QF748 on December 29 at 7.30pm.

Measles is a highly contagious, serious infection which can be associated with complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.

Symptoms include cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed by a blotchy rash which usually begins on the head and then spreads down the body.

Authorities have urged anyone who was at the exposure sites at the specified times to monitor for symptoms:

NSW Health said anyone who was on the Qantas flight or at the terminal should watch for symptoms until January 16, and anyone in the emergency department should watch until January 21.

There were seven cases of measles notified in South Australia last year.

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Western Sydney Local Health District Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Conrad Moreira said the recent increase in measles cases in returned travellers is an important reminder to people travelling overseas to areas with outbreaks to ensure you are fully protected.