Latest Update on Measles Outbreak

Friday 25 February 2011
Latest Update on Measles Outbreak

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) reports two more people confirmed with measles this week with another likely to be confirmed. In addition, five people are under investigation for measles. This brings the latest number of people with confirmed measles to 18.

One of the people confirmed with measles was on board the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH131 which flew from Kuala Lumpur to Auckland Airport on Friday 18th February.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Sheryl Jury says a passenger list has been requested from the airline for ARPHS to begin contacting passengers seated around the person to assess their immunity.

ARPHS would like to let passengers from the flight know of the risk, in case there is a delay and anyone is developing symptoms. Prompt identification of measles helps to prevent it being spread to others. If anyone has any concerns they may have contracted measles they can contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 or phone their doctor.

“Measles is a serious illness and one in ten people with measles need hospital treatment.

“ARPHS’ role is contacting all the exposed people, assessing whether they are susceptible to measles infection, and providing public health advice including the need for isolation and further immunisation.

“The only way to protect from measles and its complications is to be fully vaccinated. My plea would be for parents and families to check that their children’s immunisations are up-to-date.

“Given the current national emergency with the Christchurch earthquake, it is particularly important that measles does not gain a foothold,” says Dr Jury.

How to protect you and your family against measles

-Make sure your children and family are fully immunised. It is the best way to provide protection against a number of diseases and complications. Measles can’t be treated once you get it, so the only way to prevent the disease is through immunisation

-Any passengers on Malaysian Airlines Flight MH131 who are unwell should telephone their doctor or call Healthline on 0800 611-116 for advice.
It is important to call first because measles is highly infectious and people with measles can infect others in the waiting room.

ENDS

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