02 September 2019

As measles continues to circulate in New Zealand, the Ministry of Health says it's vital to continue working on prevention and control measures.

Measles is a serious, highly infectious, potentially life-threatening disease. The most important thing for our families to do right now is to make sure their whānau are protected.

Our communities need to be very aware of the symptoms of measles, which starts with a fever, coughing, a runny nose and sore red eyes. After three or four days, a rash appears on the face and then spreads over the body.

Measles is contagious and can spread quickly among unimmunised people. It is important people with symptoms do not visit their GP, after-hours clinics, or the hospital unless it’s a medical emergency. To limit further exposure to other people, they should instead phone their family doctor or their local health provider for advice.

Immunisation is the only way to prevent measles and Manukau DHB has opened three outreach centres in South Auckland where people can go to get free MMR vaccinations.

Free vaccinations are available in the following locations in South Auckland over the coming weekend;

• Free Church of Tonga, Mangere, Saturdays 9am-3pm
• Manukau SuperClinic, Manukau, Saturdays 8.30am-3pm
• Clendon Public Nursing Office, Clendon Shopping Centre, Manurewa, Daily, 9.30am-3pm

Our advice is simple; if you’re not immune, or not sure, you should contact your family doctor or nurse to make an appointment to get vaccinated or call the Healthline 0800 611 116 for advice.

If you’re travelling overseas, you should make sure you’re fully immunised against measles before you go.

Visit the Ministry of Health website or the Health Navigator NZ website for more information on measles and what to do if you are concerned.

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