Measles Immunisation Week lifts MMR coverage and awareness

Over 15,000 Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) doses were administered over the recently concluded Measles Immunisation Week. 

“It was incredibly encouraging to see communities nationwide rally behind this vital public health initiative,” says Dr Nick Chamberlain, Executive National Director of National Public Health Service.  

“The collective effort to increase protection against measles has been both inspiring and effective. I’d like to thank our entire vaccination workforce, particularly those that worked on Saturday and Sunday to push us over the 15,000 mark. 

“With 18 confirmed cases in the current outbreak, our focus remains firmly on halting the spread of this highly contagious and serious disease. By increasing the number of people who are immunised, we reduce the risk of further transmission and protect our most vulnerable.” 

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we know of. Around 90% of non-immune individuals will become infected if exposed. The good news is that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 99% of people with protection against catching measles. 

“It’s remarkable to see how just one week of focused action can drive such a meaningful increase in doses delivered and overall protection. Every dose counts — and every person protected brings us closer to stamping this outbreak out,” says Dr Chamberlain. 

“While more Kiwis are now protected against measles, we still have a long way to go to reach our goal of 95% MMR coverage across the motu to help us eliminate this highly contagious and serious disease.”