Today we’re confirming one additional measles case in Nelson. This brings the current total number of known cases nationally to 18, 17 of whom are no longer infectious.

The new case in Nelson is not currently known to be linked to any previous cases, which may indicate undetected measles circulating in the community. Locations of Interest visited by the case while infectious have been identified and will be uploaded to our website (external link). Anyone who lives in or has visited Nelson between 1 – 7 November is advised to check the Locations of Interest webpage over the next few days and follow the advice provided. 

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses. It spreads very easily from person to person so anyone who is feeling unwell is encouraged to stay home and seek health advice by calling Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116.

The outbreak is ongoing, and Health New Zealand continues to lead the response with a focus on ‘stamping out’ cases. An outbreak can only be declared over after two complete incubation periods with no new cases. For measles, this means no new cases for 42 consecutive days.

We anticipate more cases as the current outbreak progresses. New Zealand continues to remain at high risk from measles.

We will continue to publish updates when new information becomes available.

What you can do

Immunisation is the best protection against measles. When given from 12 months of age, two doses of the Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine protect about 99 per cent of people from getting measles.

Contact your healthcare provider to check your immunisation status and get vaccinated. Visit our website for the immunisation clinic schedule (external link). Many clinics do not require bookings or enrolment – check online for more information. You can also call your GP or health care provider to make an immunisation appointment, and many pharmacies offer walk-in immunisation services.

Remain alert for measles symptoms, and if unwell, stay home to avoid spreading measles to others.

Measles symptoms can 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, which can last up to one week

If you suspect you may have measles, please phone ahead before visiting your doctor, or your Hauora Māori Provider or Pacific health provider so they can take precautions to prevent measles spreading. You can call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116 for information and advice.

Keep checking our locations of interest webpage, which can be found here (external link) and will continue to be updated as new information becomes available.

More information

People can check their immunity status by visiting info.health.nz/measles-immunity (external link) or call the Vaccination Helpline for free on 0800 28 29 26.

You can call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116 for information and advice.

For more information about MMR vaccination visit: info.health.nz/MeaslesVaccine (external link)

Learn more about our outbreak response, and how to protect yourself and your whānau here: Measles outbreak response (external link)

Measles cases by region as of Sunday 9 November 1pm 

*Indicates change in the past 24 hours

Northland | Te Tai Tokerau  1
Auckland | Tāmaki Makaurau  6
Taranaki  1
Manawatū  2
Wellington  6
Nelson  2*
TOTAL 18*

For more information please contact hnzmedia@tewhatuora.govt.nz