Measles Statistics Weekly Update #3

25 July 2011

Measles Statistics Weekly Update #3

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service can confirm:

• 76 confirmed cases of measles in the Auckland region as of this morning
• 3 contacts are in quarantine
• Five cases have required hospitalisation during this outbreak

It remains that most cases have occurred in West Auckland with some spread to Central Auckland, North Shore, and Manukau.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) Medical Officer of Health, Dr Richard Hoskins says, “There is no treatment for measles, the only thing that can stop you catching measles is to get immunised. He reminds parents that it is never too late to catch up on immunisation. If your child has missed out, please call your GP to receive free immunisation.

“Almost all of the 76 confirmed cases have been found in un-immunised people. To check if your child is up-to-date with their immunisations contact your GP. This information can also be found in your Well Child Health Book or if your child is under seven years old you can check the National Immunisation Register by calling:

• Waitemata DHB NIR (09) 838 1852
• Auckland DHB NIR (09) 638 0393 or (09) 638 0394
• Counties Manukau DHB NIR 0800 454 375

“We continue to remind parents to take care and help stop measles spreading, especially during the school holidays.

If your child is unwell or you suspect your child has been exposed to measles, and they are not up to date with MMR immunisations, please refrain from sending them to any scheduled group activities including community gatherings.
“It is also important to call your doctor before visiting a waiting room as measles is highly infectious and people with it can infect others.

Dr Hoskins says anyone displaying symptoms of measles, which include fever, cough, blocked nose, sore red eyes, should immediately telephone their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116, for advice.

ENDS

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