Measles Alert: Protect Yourself and Your Whānau
Auckland has currently confirmed a case of measles, and the time is now for us to be aware. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. The best protection against measles is the free MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide lifelong protection in 99% of people.
🩺 Recognise the Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 7 to 18 days after exposure, often within 10 days. They include:
- High fever
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough
- Sore, red watery eyes
- Loss of appetite
- White spots inside the mouth
3 to 7 days after the first symptoms, a red or dark pink rash appears, starting on the face or behind the ears and spreading to the body, arms, and legs. The rash is not usually itchy and can last for a week or more.
🚨 Stay Vigilant
If you or your child develop symptoms, stay at home and call us on 0508 745 426.
If we are closed, please contact Healthline 0800 611 116
If you do present to clinic, please remain in the car and contact reception for further instruction.
Avoid contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable to infections.
If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, contact your GP or Well Child Tamariki Ora provider.
Remember, it’s never too late to catch up on vaccinations.
💉 Get Vaccinated
The MMR vaccine is free for everyone born on or after 1 January 1969. Two doses of the vaccine provide the most effective protection. If you’re unsure whether you’ve had two doses, it’s safe to get vaccinated again.
You can get vaccinated here at Ngati Pikiao or at participating pharmacies. No appointment is necessary at some pharmacies, and they often have longer opening hours.
📢 Help Us Protect Our Community
Measles spreads easily among people who are not immunised. By getting vaccinated and staying home when sick, you help protect those who are most vulnerable, including infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Together, we can keep our whānau safe.
For more information, visit Measles – how to recognise.
