Best Christmas gift could be MMR vaccine

1 December 2011

Best Christmas gift could be MMR vaccine

Health authorities are advising Aucklanders to ensure they are fully protected against measles before they go on holiday, or risk facing a cheerless Christmas and New Year being isolated or even hospitalised with the disease.

Dr Stuart Jenkins, Clinical Director of Primary Care at Auckland and Waitemata District Health Boards, says the risk of measles spreading further is likely to increase over the holiday season, as Aucklanders travel away from the city and large gatherings and celebrations occur.

“Since we began the enhanced immunisation initiatives in October, we have seen some really encouraging results in the increased uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine to curb the spread of measles. However, there is still an outbreak in the Auckland region, and people need to continue to be vigilant.”

“We would urge everyone to check that their own and their family’s immunisations are up to date before they go on holiday, or catch up with family in other parts of the country.”

“I’m sure the last thing anyone wants for Christmas this year is a case of measles, to pass measles on to someone else, or two weeks in quarantine trying to keep away from friends and family.”

“Anyone who is unsure of their immunisation status should talk to their GP clinic about getting vaccinated as soon as possible. This will ensure their Christmas holiday plans are not disrupted by measles,” says Dr Jenkins.

As of today, there have been 372 confirmed and probable cases of measles notified in Auckland since 30 May 2011 and 64 people requiring hospitalisation. Latest figures from both the NIR (National Immunisation Register) and 20 random GP practices across the Auckland region are showing an increase of approximately 50 percent in the MMR vaccine uptake between July and October when compared to the same time last year.

The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny or blocked nose, sore red eyes and white spots inside the mouth, with a rash appearing on the face and spreading down the body after three to five days.

Anyone who has these symptoms, or who may have been in contact with someone with measles and is unsure if they are immune, should stay home to reduce the risk of spreading the disease, and call their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.

The best protection against measles, a highly infectious disease, is to have two doses of the MMR vaccine. The vaccine is available free to all those who need it. People wishing to obtain further information about measles can visit www.healthpoint.co.nz.

A video illustrating the spread of measles in the Auckland region is available to view at www.youtube.com/ARPHSNZ.

ENDS

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