Enhanced immunisation initiatives to combat measles outbreak

12 October 2011

Enhanced immunisation initiatives launched to combat measles outbreak

In response to a sustained outbreak of measles in the Auckland region, health authorities have today announced a number of new measures to improve protection and increase immunisation coverage rates in the region. To date, there have been 228 confirmed and probable cases of measles in Auckland, since 30 May 2011.

Dr Stuart Jenkins, Clinical Director of Primary Care at Auckland and Waitemata District Health Boards, says it is vital for anyone born after 1 January 1969 to check that they are fully immunised against measles, and to organise a measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination to ensure they are completely protected, if required. “This includes all people under 42 years of age who are not immunised, who are unsure of their immunisation status, or who have only had one dose of the MMR vaccine,” says Dr Jenkins.

Infants can now receive their first dose of MMR at 12 months instead of at 15 months. The second MMR dose can be given 28 days later, rather than at age four. In addition GP teams have been asked to contact all children aged between four and 15 who have not had two doses of MMR, to arrange vaccinations over the coming weeks.

The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny or blocked nose, sore red eyes and white spots inside the mouth, with a rash appearing on the face and spreading down the body after three to five days. Anyone who has these symptoms, or who may have been in contact with someone with measles and is unsure if they are immune, should stay home to reduce the risk of spreading the disease, and call their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.

The best protection against measles, a highly infectious disease, is to have two doses of the MMR vaccine. The vaccine is available free to all those who need it. The Ministry of Health is working with the three district health boards across Auckland to ensure sufficient supply of the MMR vaccine is on hand to meet demand.

All those wishing to obtain further information on the enhanced immunisation campaign can visit www.healthpoint.co.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media