Residents of Sydney’s Northern Beaches have been warned to be on high alert after a case of measles was confirmed in the area.

The case was revealed to be someone who was in contact with a recently reported measles case in northern Sydney, and was infectious when visiting a number of locations in Dee Why and Manly in late September.

The dates range from Thursday, September 25 to Saturday, September 27, and the people who went to the following locations are being told to monitor for symptoms:

The locations do not pose an ongoing risk.

Northern Sydney Local Health District Director of Public Health, Dr Michael Staff warned it could take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear, with people present in the above locations told to monitor for symptoms until October 13 and October 15.

“Symptoms to look out for include fever, sore eyes, and a cough followed three or four  days later by a red, blotchy rash which usually spreads from the head and neck to the  rest of the body,” Staff said.

He also urged the public to stay up to date with their vaccinations, saying it was the most effective way to stop the transmission of measles.

“We want to again remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their  vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if  given early enough,” Staff said. 

“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against  measles, which is highly infectious. 

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective and is given free for  children at 12 and 18 months of age.

It is also free in NSW for anyone born in 1966 or  after who hasn’t already had two doses. 

Children under the age of 12 months can have their first dose of MMR up to six months  earlier if they are travelling to areas with a high risk for measles.

Parents should consult  their GP.