The increase of large family gatherings, celebrations and increased travel to and from Auckland means the risk of measles cases spreading is increased.
Measles is a highly communicable disease that can easily be passed from one person to another.
Anyone who is not immune to measles and who comes in contact with the disease could be quarantined for up to two weeks - severely disrupting holiday plans.
An early MMR vaccine could be the best Christmas present, the three Auckland DHBs note in a
1 Dec 2011 press release:
“Since we began the enhanced immunisation initiatives in October, we have seen some really
encouraging results in the increased uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine
to curb the spread of measles," says Dr Stuart Jenkins, Clinical Director of Primary Care at Auckland and Waitemata District Health Boards.
"However, there is still an outbreak in the Auckland region, and people need to continue to be vigilant. We would urge everyone to check that their own and their family’s immunisations are up to date before they go on holiday, or catch up with family in other parts of the country.”
“I’m sure the last thing anyone wants for Christmas this year is a case of measles, to pass measles on to someone else, or two weeks in quarantine trying to keep away from friends and family.
“Anyone who is unsure of their immunisation status
should talk to their GP clinic about getting vaccinated as soon as possible. This will ensure their Christmas holiday plans are not disrupted by measles,” says Dr Jenkins.
As of today 91 Dec), there have been 372 confirmed and probable cases of measles notified in Auckland
since 30 May 2011 and 64 people requiring hospitalisation. Latest figures from both the NIR
(National Immunisation Register) and 20 random GP practices across the Auckland region are
showing an increase of approximately 50 percent in the MMR vaccine uptake between July and
October when compared to the same time last year.
The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny or blocked nose, sore red eyes and white
spots inside the mouth, with a rash appearing on the face and spreading down the body after
three to five days.
Anyone who has these symptoms, or who may have been in contact with someone with measles
and is unsure if they are immune, should stay home to reduce the risk of spreading the disease,
and
call their doctor (ProCare patients can call 24 hours a day to speak to a registered nurse at their doctor's practice) for advice.
The best protection against measles, a highly infectious disease, is to have two doses of the
MMR vaccine. The vaccine is available free to all those who need it. People wishing to obtain
further information about measles can visit
www.healthpoint.co.nz.