Northland measles update

Attribute to Dr Susan Jack, National Clinical Director, Protection, National Public Health Service

• Four measles cases have now been identified in Northland, with one confirmed case and three historical cases
• People in the Bay of Islands urged to watch out for measles symptoms
• Possible undetected measles transmission in the community since early September
• Bay of Islands Hospital identified as Location of Interest, with multiple exposure events in September
• Northlanders urged to check if they are immunised and protected against measles, with a clinic in Kawakawa tomorrow

Cases update

Health New Zealand can confirm four cases of measles in Northland have now been identified. This includes the case reported yesterday (Friday 26 September), plus three historical cases (reported as under assessment yesterday). The additional three cases are historical as they are no longer infectious.

One of these historical cases had previously travelled overseas to Asia where measles is circulating and is therefore considered the source case.

Four other people associated with the confirmed case are still being assessed for measles infection. Three of these were reported yesterday, and one additional person was also subsequently identified. All are in isolation, being monitored for symptoms and receiving support from public health. Public health is working to rapidly identify close contacts and ensure these people quarantine as required.

Bay of Islands community urged to monitor for symptoms with possible undetected measles in the community since early September

There is the possibility of undetected measles transmission in the Bay of Islands community since early September. While health staff are actively addressing this issue to reduce further spread of measles, it’s crucial that we identify any new cases as quickly as possible.

Health New Zealand is therefore urging people in the area to watch out for measles symptoms and to stay home and call Healthline urgently for free on 0800 611 116 if they are unwell. Measles symptoms include:

• an illness that begins with high fever (over 38 C), cough, runny nose, and sore red eyes (conjunctivitis)
• a rash, beginning on the face and gradually spreading down the body to the arms and legs. The rash lasts for up to one week.

Healthline is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and has interpreters for those who need them.

If you need to go to a healthcare facility, call first and tell the healthcare professional that you have measles symptoms. This will help them take steps to keep other people safe. If you need an in-person appointment, wear a well-fitting mask to protect others.

Anyone in the Bay of Islands area who recently had measles symptoms but has since recovered should still call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.

Bay of Islands Hospital identified as Location of Interest

Multiple exposures have been identified at Bay of Islands Hospital.

Anyone who was present at the Hospital at the below times and dates should watch out for symptoms.

This applies to anyone who entered the main entrance of the hospital, including those accessing GP, Outpatient, Laboratory, X-ray, Emergency Department, and Maternity services. This does not apply to inpatients.

At any time, if you develop symptoms of measles contact your healthcare or hauora provider, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116. Please phone ahead before visiting your doctor or hauora provider so they can take precautions to prevent measles spreading. If you previously had symptoms but have since recovered, please still call Healthline.

Additional information on the Locations of Interest is available at:https://info.health.nz/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/about-measles/measles-locations-of-interest-in-aotearoa-new-zealand (external link)

Now is the time to check if you and your whānau are protected against measles

An immunisation clinic is available tomorrow at Te Ara Tū o Ngāti Hine, Bay of Islands Hospital, Hospital Rd, Kawakawa, between 10am and 4pm.

If you aren’t immunised or aren’t sure, immunisation clinics provide a great chance to kōrero about immunisations and check if your whānau need them.

Getting immunised with two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine (after the age of 12 months) is the best form of protection against measles. The MMR vaccine is free in New Zealand for anyone 18 years or under, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.

You can also book a vaccination appointment with a pharmacy, your doctor, nurse, or hauora provider. Visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine (external link) for a list of vaccination sites in your area.

Now is a good time to check if you and your whānau are immune to measles https://info.health.nz/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/about-measles/measles-immunity (external link)