Media release from Canterbury District Health Board

Canterbury health professionals have received a positive response to efforts to contain a measles outbreak that is sweeping through pre-schools and schools.

In early August the Canterbury District Health Board sent letters to Canterbury General Practitioners asking them to identify children that may be at risk of catching the illness.

Parents of these children were then contacted and encouraged to bring in their child for full vaccination against the highly contagious infection. As a result over 5,000 Canterbury children have received the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination in the last month. In the same month last year 700 MMR vaccinations were given.

"This is an outstanding effort from the parents and general practices of Canterbury. It
has certainly reduced the level of measles in our community, probably prevented hospital admissions and possibly saved lives," says Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, Dr Alistair Humphrey.

"The number of measles notifications has reduced but is still higher than usual, so we need to remain vigilant and bring our children up to date on their immunisations," says Dr Humphrey.

The most recent cluster of cases has occurred at Oaklands School. Five children have been infected with measles and the school is taking preventative measures to curb its spread.

"We've contacted all of our parents to keep them informed of the situation. Our school newsletter has included Ministry of Health advice regarding measles. We have also requested that non-vaccinated children who are in the same classes as children who have been diagnosed with measles, are kept at home for two weeks," says Margaret Trotter, Principal of Oaklands School.

Rangiora Medical Centre GP Dr Alf Scragg says "We've had around 100 'extra' children receiving MMR vaccinations over the past month. These are infants who have been called in earlier than usual for their second vaccination and children who have not yet had their first round." Parents have been very positive about the request and relieved that their children are now immunised.

Measles is a serious disease that is highly infectious and can spread from person to person through the air by breathing, coughing and sneezing. It can cause a rash, high fever, runny nose and sore watery eyes. It can lead to pneumonia, ear infections and brain damage and can occasionally be fatal.

Anyone who thinks they or a family member has measles should stay at home and phone their General Practice or After Hours Clinic for advice.