Media release from Norhtland District Health Board

Northland District Health Board advises Northlanders to check that their family members are protected from Measles.  This follows confirmation of a large outbreak of measles in the region.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Jonathan Jarman said that there have been an estimated 30 cases in the Hokianga region over the last several weeks and five of these cases had been confirmed by laboratory tests.

Measles has the potential to make children very sick for one to two weeks, with the symptoms including high fever, hacking cough, red eyes, running nose and a rash.  A number of rash-causing illnesses can appear to be very similar to measles including meningococcal disease.  

Dr Jarman said the local health provider advised him of the situation immediately following the family presenting to their service for treatment and Measles was confirmed shortly after.

"The affected Pakeha community are quite isolated and normally do not have a lot to do with traditional health services."

"Our immediate concern is that the virus is going to spread into the wider Hokianga community and to other parts of New Zealand."

Dr Jarman urged caregivers to check that their children have been vaccinated against measles.

"One measles injection is good but two are better - two measles injections give 99% protection from measles."

Measles vaccinations can be given to children from the age of 12 months.

Because measles is a severe illness it is also important for caregivers to seek medical advice if their children become sick.

Measles starts like a flu-like illness but it steadily gets worse with a high fever and cough.  The characteristic rash appears after several days. It is extremely infectious, so please phone ahead to your doctor to ensure the safety of other patients and surgery staff.

"If your child is sick seek advice from your doctor or practice nurse, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116".

Symptoms of Measles:
•    High Fever
•    Hacking Cough
•    Red Eyes
•    Running Nose
•    Rash
•    Initially presents like a 'cold' but then gets worse.
•    Rash appears 3-4 days after initial symptoms
•    Ear infections, diarrhoea, and/or pneumonia are also possible.
•    Most children take one to two weeks to recover

It's not just babies - older children, teenagers and younger adults can get measles too. Immunisation is free for adults under the age of 40.

Attached is a Measles fact sheet for parents and Caregivers with further information.

More information about immunisation and the National Immunisation Schedule is available at www.moh.govt.nz/immuniation.

The Immunisation Advisory Centre offers independent advice about immunisation through its toll-free line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) and at its website