Measles in New Zealand

04 Mar 2014

An outbreak of measles is ongoing in the North Island of New Zealand. Around 61 cases have been reported since the first cases were identified at the beginning of 2014. Of the 61 cases, 43 were located in Auckland, 15 in the Bay of Plenty/Lakes district and 3 in Wellington.

Further imeasles infections are expected as 20 of the reported cases were among pupils at Westlake Boys' High School in Auckland. Schools and nurseries in the Otago region in the south of the South Island are on high alert for any suspected measles cases. Parents have been advised to ensure that their children are fully immunised against measles.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.