Two new measles cases confirmed in Auckland

Two new measles cases have been confirmed in Auckland - both linked to overseas travel. 

Health NZ noted Flight SQ281 from Singapore, which arrived on the 17th of February. 

Other locations of interest included Auckland International Airport from 11.30 pm that day to 1.30 am on the 18th, and the waiting room at Waitakere Hospital Emergency Department on the 21st of February from 9 am. 

Attempts were being made to contact all people on the flight and from the ED directly. 

Medical Officer of Health Dr Richard Vipond asked people with symptoms to seek help.

“If you have symptoms of measles, please phone ahead before visiting your doctor or healthcare provider so they can take precautions to prevent measles from spreading. You can also call Healthline for free advice anytime on 0800 611 116.”

Symptoms can include high fever (over 38 C), cough, runny nose, sore, red eyes, and a rash that begins on the face and gradually spreads down the body to the arms and legs. The rash lasts for up to one week.

Dr Vipond urged people to consider getting vaccinated. 

“These cases are another reminder for everyone to check if you and your whānau are immune to measles. They highlight New Zealand’s ongoing vulnerability to further outbreaks, especially related to overseas travel due to our low immunisation rates.”

“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.”

More information can be found here on measles.