Five cases of measles in the Abondance Bay area, others under investigation

There are now five confirmed cases of measles in the Bay of Plenty area this month, and four other possible cases are under investigation.

Dr. Jim Miller, Public Health Medical Officer Toi Te Ora, said the most recent case does not seem to be related to the Mount Maunganui case group.

"GPs and residents are now on the alert and so we have received four more measles cases that we are currently investigating," said Dr. Miller.

Vaccination is the best protection against measles and the vaccine that protects against measles is the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella), "he said.

"It is important for parents to ensure that their children receive free routine MMR vaccination at 15 months and at 4 years of age.

Dr. Miller stated that the best time to get one and that it was very effective for anyone who had never received a dose of MMR vaccine.

"After a dose of MMR vaccine, about 95% of people are protected against measles and 99% of people who received both doses are protected against measles," he said.

Miller said that it was important to check your immunity if you are planning a trip abroad.

The Ministry of Health recently pointed out that since 2012, all cases of measles in New Zealand were due to travelers from abroad and that large outbreaks of measles were occurring in many countries.

People born before 1 January 1969 are probably immune because measles was quite common and this group of older people does not need measles immunization.

"If you think that you or a family member is infected with measles, stay home and call your doctor to warn them of your symptoms and allow them to arrange for a safe and secure badessment. without infecting other people, or call the Healthline at 0800 611 116 for advice, "Miller said.

For more information, visit the Toi Te Ora Public Health website or call the Immunization Advisory Center at 0800 466 863.