Measles Spread Continues in Hamilton
Measles continues to circulate in Hamilton associated with Fraser High School, as well as a single confirmed case now at
Hamilton Girls’ High School.
Waikato District Health Board’s Population Health service has confirmed 38 measles cases in Hamilton in recent weeks –
with a significant number associated to Fraser High School.
The public health unit is investigating about another 20 suspected cases from throughout the city.
“It’s important with the spread outside of the Fraser High School community, that people make themselves aware of the
signs and symptoms of measles and check their child’s immunity status,” said Waikato DHB medical officer of health Dr
Anita Bell.
Hamilton Girls’ High School have sent a letter out to all parents form Population Health advising them of the case and
for those who have not had two documented doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine to be at home in
quarantine until further notice.
The same precautions are being taken at Fraser High School.
“Information has been circulated regarding the increase in cases to all schools, early child care centres and general
practice.”
People who are regarded as not immune to measles are:
• People younger than 45 years old (born after 01 January 1969) who have not had two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella
(MMR) vaccine or have not had a laboratory confirmed positive measles result
• Children over four years old who have not received their second dose of MMR
• Infants under the age of 15 months who have not received their first routine dose of MMR vaccine. They are susceptible
and rely on everyone else to be immune so that measles does not spread to them
“Measles can be a very serious illness, with one in three sufferers experiencing complications such as ear infections,
pneumonia, bronchitis or diarrhoea,” said Dr Bell.
“While one in 10 on average requires hospitalisation, admission rates in this outbreak have been higher.”
She reiterated that immunisation is the best protection from this potentially serious disease.
“Immunisation protects not only the individual, but also blocks the spread of this disease within our communities.”
Unimmunised people who have had contact with a person with measles, will normally be advised to stay at home and away
from all public places, school or work for 14 days after their contact.
“Anyone born before 1969 or who has received two doses of MMR can reasonably assume they are already immune.”
If families suspect someone has measles they should call their doctor, where possible, before visiting to avoid
spreading the disease while waiting.
Measles is spread by tiny droplets in the air and is one of the few diseases that can spread so easily to those nearby.
Dr Bell says anyone displaying symptoms of measles, which include fever, cough, blocked nose, sore red eyes, should
immediately telephone their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.
Visit www.waikatodhb.health.nz/measles for Waikato measles information.
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