Health officials have issued an urgent alert after a measles outbreak in Cairns, Far North Queensland. Six cases have been confirmed in just three weeks, with exposure sites including supermarkets, restaurants, and backpacker hostels.

Cairns Hospital has reintroduced mask mandates for visitors and staff in key wards, including intensive care, maternity, cancer care, and the special care nursery. “Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact,” authorities warned. They strongly encourage masks in all hospital areas.

The first case was linked to a traveller from Bali, while the other five are locally acquired. An unrelated case was also reported in Townsville, and NSW Health has traced exposures to flights and airports in Sydney and the Gold Coast.

Doctors urge anyone born after 1965 to check their vaccination status. “Two doses of the measles vaccine offer strong protection,” health officials said. If symptoms such as fever, cough, or rash appear, avoid public spaces and seek medical advice.

Could this outbreak push Australia toward wider mask rules again?