Second measles case confirmed

MEDIA RELEASE

March 19, 2015

Second measles case confirmed

The Canterbury District Health Board is urging people to get immunised following a second confirmed case of measles in Christchurch.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton says the case suggests measles has gained a foothold in the Christchurch community.

“This is a very contagious disease and it’s quite likely we will get more cases. The good news is immunisation is a proven way to stop the spread,” Dr Brunton says.

“We are investigating the source of the child’s measles. There is currently no known connection with the previous measles case. Both cases picked up measles from people in the community, but the sources of each case remains unknown.”

Dr Brunton says because both children were up to date with their vaccinations, it reduced the severity of their symptoms.

About 90 percent of children become immune after their first measles vaccination at 15 months. A second dose, given when 4 years old, increases protection to 99 percent. In both cases the children were not yet old enough to receive their second dose.

“Those who have had only one dose are at higher risk of getting the disease. The more people who are fully vaccinated, the more protected young children not yet fully immunised will be,” Dr Brunton says.

Advice has been given to the two preschools and is being provided to parents.

“The advice urges parents who have not immunised their children to do so. Immunisation helps to protect your child, your family and your community,” she says.

“While we are continuing to trace the source of the disease, the key to preventing the spread is in the hands of the community. Immunisation is our best protection.”

Measles starts with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat. It’s followed by a rash that spreads over the body. Measles virus is highly contagious and spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing.

For more information on immunisation speak to your General Practice team.

If you believe you or someone in your family has measles please phone your General Practice Team in the first instance, any time of day or night.

ENDS

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