Measles Statistics Weekly Update #2

18 July 2011

Measles Statistics Weekly Update #2

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service can confirm:

• 72 confirmed cases of measles in the Auckland region as of this morning.
• 5 contacts are in quarantine
• Five cases have required hospitalisation during this outbreak.
• Most cases have occurred in West Auckland with some spread to Central Auckland, North Shore, and Manukau.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Richard Hoskins says measles is likely to spread.

“We are asking parents to take care especially during the school holidays, to help stop measles spreading. If your child is unwell or you suspect has been exposed to measles and is not up to date with MMR immunisations, we would ask that you refrain from sending them to any scheduled group activities including community gatherings.

“Common symptoms of measles include sore eyes, a runny or blocked nose, cough and fever followed by a raised red rash that starts on the face and moves down to cover the rest of the body. If you or your child has these symptoms call your GP or Healthline on 0800 611 116.

“By being fully immunised you will not only be protecting yourself or your child – you’ll also be stopping this disease from spreading in our communities and to vulnerable people.

“During this outbreak, ARPHS has traced more than 400 contacts (not including those in schools and ECECs), most of the new cases are from transmission of the virus in schools and within households.

“Vaccination is the only way to prevent you or your child catching measles. If you care for or work with other people or young children as part of your work, it is important that you are fully immunised. The vaccination is funded for children, young people and unimmunised adults.

“Anyone displaying symptoms of measles should immediately telephone their doctor, or Healthline on 0800 611 116, for advice. It is important to call first because measles is highly infectious and people with it can infect others in the waiting room,” says Dr Hoskins.

ENDS

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