Measles – is your family protected?

18 February 2011

Concern that measles may spread to the Bay of Plenty and Lakes region has prompted the local Medical Officer of Health to urge parents to ensure that their children are up to date with their immunisations.

So far this year there have been 20 confirmed measles cases across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. “Measles is highly infectious and can be serious when there are complications such as pneumonia. Up to one on ten people who get measles will need hospital treatment.” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health.

Our immunisation coverage is not as good as it needs to be to prevent measles spreading in the community. Measles vaccination provides effective protection and so, while we do not yet have any confirmed cases in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes region, it is especially important to ensure children are up to date with their immunisations. Measles vaccine is given at 15 months and 4 years of age.

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. As some of the recent New Zealand cases have been acquired overseas, it is also sensible for travellers to ensure that their measles vaccinations and other routine immunisations are up-to-date prior to overseas travel.

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

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. Children with measles can feel really miserable.

If you think your child or someone in your family has measles, phone your doctor first and get advice as this helps ensure that it is not spread to others while sitting in the waiting room.

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: http://www.immune.org.nz
• Ministry of Health website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation

ENDS

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