South Australia has reported nine measles cases in 2026, with five linked to a growing cluster at Brighton Secondary School in Adelaide. Health authorities have expanded measles contact tracing after an infected teacher visited multiple public locations, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. The measles outbreak in Australia has prompted renewed calls for vaccination, symptom monitoring, and public awareness as officials identify additional exposure sites. The state recorded seven cases throughout 2025, making the latest cluster a significant public health concern.
How Did The Measles Outbreak in South Australia Start?
The current measles outbreak in Australia began with a teenager who tested positive on September 14 after returning from overseas. Three additional teenagers from Brighton Secondary School subsequently contracted the infection, followed by a teacher linked to the school cluster.
The latest case brings the school-linked cluster to five infections and the South Australia measles cases to a total of 9 in 2026. The infected teacher, who was in their forties, was hospitalised in a stable condition, according to reports published on September 28.
South Australia’s Chief Public Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spurrier, said the outbreak could lead to further transmission and highlighted the importance of vaccination in limiting its spread.
How Were the New Measles Exposure Sites in Australia Identified?
Australian Health authorities have expanded the list of measles exposure sites after identifying locations where infected individuals may have exposed others to the virus.
The latest measles exposure sites in South Australia include:
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville South: An infected person visited the emergency department’s waiting area and fast-track section over an extended period on September 23 and 24.
- Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Hindmarsh: An infectious teacher attended an event associated with the Catholic Schools Music Festival on September 23.
- Westfield Marion, Oaklands Park: The shopping centre was among the locations visited by infectious individuals.
- Fulham Gardens: Exposure sites included a pharmacy, a pathology collection centre, and a supermarket.
- Brighton Secondary School: The school remains central to the outbreak investigation.
Authorities have also identified exposure sites at other public venues, including Harbour Town and Morphett Vale Stadium.
The complete list of locations and exposure times is available through the SA Health measles alert. People should check the latest updates because authorities may add locations as contact tracing progresses.
What to Know About Measles Symptoms and Transmission?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in an enclosed space for up to 30 minutes after the infected person leaves.
Measles symptoms typically develop 7–18 days after exposure. The main signs include:
- Fever and cough.
- Runny or blocked nose.
- Red, sore eyes (conjunctivitis).
- A blotchy rash that usually starts on the head and spreads down the body.
Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, a lung infection, and encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain.
What Are the Safety Measures For Measles Outbreak in Australia?
Health authorities have urged residents to check their vaccination records as the measles outbreak in Australia continues to develop.
Professor Spurrier reported that 93.3% of South Australians were vaccinated against measles, but coverage had declined in recent years.
Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide strong protection against infection. SA Health has encouraged eligible residents who have not received two doses to access free vaccination.
The state has also supported vaccination efforts for the Brighton school community as part of its response to the measles outbreak in Australia.
What Should People Do After Possible Measles Exposure?
Australians who visited a listed measles exposure site during the specified time should monitor for symptoms and check whether they have received two doses of the measles vaccine.
Health authorities recommend that anyone who develops symptoms after a possible exposure contact a healthcare provider by phone before visiting a clinic or hospital. This advance notification allows healthcare professionals to take precautions and reduce the risk of exposing other patients and staff.
Professor Spurrier said the incubation period could range from seven to 18 days. People who suspect exposure should follow the latest guidance from SA Health and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Public health officials continue to identify potential exposure sites and encourage residents to check their vaccination status amid the measles outbreak in Australia.
