Measles continues to spread in unimmunised teenagers
There are now 19 positive cases of measles,
eight of which are secondary cases (came in contact with a
case), in the Waikato District Health Board area.
There is one probable case pending.
These further secondary cases are linked to Otorohanga College and Pokuru School. The probable case was identified in Huntly with links to Auckland. One case has required hospitalisation. There are several contacts in isolation.
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Medical Officer of Health, Dr Anita Bell, pictured, said measles is a serious and highly infectious disease that makes people very ill for about 10 days.
"All schools are aware and
have been working with Population Health
"Of
the 20 cases, 19 are unimmunised and one has received only
one of the two recommended doses of MMR vaccine. This is a
testament to the effectiveness of the measles, mumps and
rubella (MMR) vaccine in protecting people who are fully
immunised.
"A secondary case is a someone who has
caught measles from a known confirmed case of measles. All
secondary cases are unimmunised.
"Immunisation is the
only protection from this potentially serious disease.
Immunisation protects not only the individual, but also
blocks the spread of this disease within our
communities."
Unimmunised people who have had contact
with a person with measles, will normally be advised to stay
at home and away from all public places, school or work for
14 days after their contact.
Anyone born before 1969
or who has received two doses of MMR can reasonably assume
they are already immune.
"If families suspect someone
has measles they should call their doctor, where possible,
before visiting to avoid spreading the disease while
waiting. Measles is spread by tiny droplets in the air and
is one of the few diseases that can spread so easily to
those nearby.
Dr Bell says anyone displaying symptoms
of measles, which include fever, cough, blocked nose, sore
red eyes, should immediately telephone their doctor or
Healthline on 0800 611 116, for advice.
Visit www.waikatodhb.health.nz/measles
ends