Measles cases in Aotearoa#
Recent measles cases linked to overseas travel have been reported in Te Tai Tokerau and Queenstown. Cases were active in the community while infectious and there is a risk of measles circulating there, and more widely in New Zealand.
Points to share with parents, caregivers and community#
- Measles is very contagious and can make people of any age very sick.
- Watch for measles symptoms: fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and a blotchy rash.
Measles: Locations of interest in Aotearoa New Zealand – Health New Zealand
- If anyone in your whānau has measles symptoms keep them home and contact a doctor or Healthline urgently on 0800 611 116.
- Vaccination is the best protection from measles. Check all whānau are immunised.
Measles immunity – Health New Zealand
Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine – Health New Zealand
- Anyone closely exposed to measles who has not received 2 measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations cannot attend their early learning service for at least 8 days.
Staff immunity#
Ask all staff to check they have records of 2 MMR vaccinations after 12 months of age, or previous measles infection.
- Staff closely exposed to measles who are not immune cannot attend their early learning service for at least 8 days.
- Some staff, in particular those born between 1969 and 1980, may have missed out on 2 doses.
- Additionally, staff born overseas may also have missed out on 2 doses.
- It is safe to have additional doses if they don’t have proof of vaccination.
Measles resources#
Measles: A guide for education settings – Health New Zealand
