Measles in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes – Update #7

Media release

Since yesterday’s report, a further three cases of measles have been confirmed in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts, bringing the total number of confirmed measles cases to seventeen since the start of April. Each of the three new cases is a resident of the Western Bay of Plenty, one of whom is known to have had contact with a previous case.

“Our team is working to identify people who may have been in contact with each case,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health for Toi Te Ora Public Health.

“It’s important everyone remains vigilant and looks for the signs and symptoms of measles, no matter where you are located. If you think you or someone in your family/whānau may have measles, please stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline first. The first early symptoms of measles are fever, runny nose, sore red eyes and cough, followed a few days later by a rash usually starting on the face before moving down the body.”

“Measles is one of the most infectious viruses, so it is important that we try to limit the spread,” says Dr Shoemack. The Healthline number is 0800 611 116.

ends

© Scoop Media