Protect kids against measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be life threatening. New Zealand has an ongoing measles outbreak, so we’re reminding our patients to ensure they and their children are fully immunised against measles.

According to the Ministry of Health, there were 2,193 confirmed cases of measles across New Zealand from 1 January 2019 to 29 January 2020. Of these, 1736 confirmed cases were in the Auckland region.

All children are eligible for free, publicly funded vaccinations on the Immunisation Schedule regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. This includes the MMR vaccinations, which cover measles. If you are unsure of your or your child’s vaccination status, call your GP or check your Well Child/Tamariki Ora or Plunket books.

Measles is a highly infectious virus that can lead to serious complications. The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, sore and watery ‘pink eyes’, and a rash.

If you or one of your children have any of these symptoms, please phone your GP for advice. It’s important to call ahead rather than go straight to the hospital or doctor’s office so that you don’t infect others.

For more information on the 2019/2020 measles outbreak, visit the Ministry of Health website.