Gisborne has a second case of measles

Wednesday 30 July 2014

A second case of measles in Gisborne has been confirmed, says Dr Geoff Cramp Medical Officer of Health.

“Measles is very infectious, even being in the same room as someone with measles after they have left the room can lead to infection. The only way to help prevent measles, is to be fully immunized. Someone is only considered immune to measles if they were born before 1969 or they have had two documented doses of MMR or they have had confirmed measles in the past.”

Dr Geoff Cramp says “if you are not immune and there is a case in the classroom or at work then you will have to stay off work or not go to school for two weeks and remain isolated away from other people in case you develop measles and then pass it on.”

“This can be a difficult time for people. So the advice at the moment would be to make sure that you are immunised – you can check with your local medical centre if you are not sure. If there is any doubt you should get a further vaccination. The measles vaccine (MMR) is free.”

“If you think you or your child has measles then phone your medical centre and let them know first. You can then be seen away from other patients so that it is not passed on in the waiting room.”

Public Health is investigating possible contacts of the second case.

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