MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Thursday 17th February 2011

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) has now confirmed 15 people in Auckland with measles, a serious and highly infectious disease.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Richard Hoskins says although some of those cases are related to travellers acquiring measles overseas, there are cases that have occurred in the community without any obvious identifiable source of infection.

“Measles needs to be taken very seriously. This disease spreads easily through the air, especially from coughing and sneezing – it is highly infectious. It commonly causes ear infections and pneumonia, and may lead to other serious complications and can, in some cases, be fatal.”

“Our clinical team of public health doctors and nurses have contacted over 800 people who were in close proximity, or in the same room, as those with measles.

“Contact tracing involves contacting all the exposed people, assessing whether they are susceptible to measles infection, and provide public health advice including the need for isolation during the infectious stage, and further immunisation.

Dr Hoskins is advising parents to check their children’s immunisation record and get their children immunised.
“Immunisation is the only effective way to protect against the disease. The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is given in two doses, normally at 15 months and 4 years of age giving over 95% protection.”

“Parents should check that their children’s immunisations are up-to-date. Check your child’s Plunket (Well Child) book, or check with your child’s GP or practice nurse.”

If you or your child are not up-to-date with immunisations, then contact your GP or practice nurse and arrange to catch up as soon as possible – it’s never too late to get immunised.

Symptoms
“Look out for measles symptoms, particularly a red rash that starts on the face and moves to the rest of the body. Children with measles are often quite sick with runny nose, cough, sore eyes or fever as well as the rash. The rash comes on after a few days and lasts up to one week.

If You Think Your Child or Family Has Measles
Before heading to the GP Practice, call your GP or practice nurse first for advice if you suspect you or someone in your family may have measles. This can help them to prevent the spread of the disease to others in the waiting room. As always, seek medical help if you are concerned about a family member who is unwell or if their condition is getting worse.

ENDS

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