6 October 2011

Measles cases cause concern, Medical Officer of Health urges people to check their vaccinations

Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been on high alert for measles because of the current outbreak in New Zealand, which has been mainly in Auckland, Waikato and Hawkes Bay areas.

The first two cases of confirmed measles in our area have been reported this week, although it appears that these cases of measles were likely to have been acquired out of the area.

“The best way for us to avoid further cases of this potentially serious infection is for everyone to again ask themselves – is my family protected?” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health.

“With the upcoming school holidays and families travelling around New Zealand and overseas, it’s important to ensure that you and your children are up to date with immunisations in general and MMR (measles, mumps and rubella vaccine) in particular. Measles immunisation provides effective protection and the vaccine is completely free for children and adults. MMR is given in two doses, normally at 15 months and 4 years of age,” says Dr Miller.

People born before 1969 are likely to be immune because measles used to be quite common but those born from 1969 onwards who are unsure of their immunity should check with their doctor.

“Contact your family doctor or practice nurse if you or your child need to be immunised – it’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr Miller.

“There has been a good response locally to previous warnings about measles. Suspected cases have been notified promptly and there has been some increase in the number of MMR vaccines given, which has been great,” says Dr Miller.

Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. These include diarrhoea, ear infections and, more seriously, pneumonia and brain inflammation,” says Dr Miller.

Knowing what to do if you suspect you or someone in the family has measles can help limit spread to others. If you think your child or someone in your family may have measles; stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.

For more information:
• Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website: www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.nz/measles
• Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863)
• Immunisation Advisory Centre website: www.immune.org.nz
• Ministry of Health website: www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation

ENDS

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