Southern DHB measles information

Southern DHB measles information

Vaccination is the best form of prevention against measles, and the MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses is considered the best way to ensure that people are immune to getting these diseases.

There is a measles outbreak in New Zealand which is mostly confined to the North Island, but there is a risk that Otago and Southland will get cases. The best way to protect the region from an outbreak is through prevention.

The upcoming ski season and school/university holidays will increase the risk of measles coming into the region with people travelling to and from affected areas. This serves as a useful reminder for people to check their vaccination history. People are encouraged to check with their GP or review their Well Child or Plunket books to see to whether they have had two doses of MMR.

Naomi Gough, Medical Officer of Health encourages everyone to “check that they have received two MMRs. Particularly adults who may have had all of their childhood vaccinations but have not received two MMRs because of when MMR was introduced to the childhood schedule. Also, some parents may have chosen not to vaccinate their children.”

Measles is a serious disease and remains a leading cause of child mortality internationally. The measles vaccine has been attributed with saving millions of lives around the world. As a result of vaccination, measles is now rare in New Zealand. Even so, many people who are affected by measles experience complications including hospitalisation, pneumonia and death.

“The MMR vaccine is free from your general practice for anyone who has not already had two doses. Contact your practice to discuss if you are eligible for a catch up dose,” commented Naomi Gough.

ENDS

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