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Measles

Measles Outbreak in New Zealand: Updated Cases and Travel Warning

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

A new measles case has been confirmed in Northland, bringing the total number of cases in Northland to 10, and the national total to 11, including a case in Queenstown. The new case in Northland was in quarantine during their infectious period, and there are no new locations of interest. The outbreak is linked to recent travel to countries experiencing measles outbreaks, and Health New Zealand is alerting the public to an escalating risk of measles globally.

The National Public Health Service (NPHS) is urging anyone who develops symptoms of measles to stay at home and contact their healthcare provider or call Healthline for free advice. Measles is a serious illness that can cause pneumonia, severe diarrhea, brain inflammation, and death, even in healthy children and adults.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Northland measles outbreak has grown to 10 cases, with one new case confirmed over the weekend.
  • The national total is now 11, including a case in Queenstown.
  • The new case in Northland was in quarantine during their infectious period, with no new locations of interest.
  • Travelers returning from countries with measles outbreaks, including Australia, Asia, and North America, are at an increased risk of contracting the disease.
  • Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles.
  • Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and a rash, which can develop 10-14 days after exposure.
  • Measles can cause pneumonia, severe diarrhea, brain inflammation, and death in healthy children and adults.
  • Pregnant women who contract measles are at a higher risk of severe illness, miscarriage, or premature birth.
  • Immunization is the best protection against measles, and immunizations are free for most people in New Zealand, including those under 18 years old.
  • Multiple immunisation clinics are being held across the country, with no booking or enrolment required for many.

Statistics:

  • 10 cases of measles confirmed in Northland, with 1 new case over the weekend (Health New Zealand).
  • 1 case in Queenstown, making the national total 11 (Health New Zealand).
  • 1 in 3 people with measles may need to be admitted to hospital (Health New Zealand).
  • Measles can cause pneumonia in 1 in 10 cases, and hospital admission in 1 in 3 cases, even in healthy children and adults (World Health Organization).
  • The MMR vaccine provides 93% protection against measles if two doses are given (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
  • Measles can cause severe illness and death, even in healthy children and adults (World Health Organization).

Sources:

  • Health New Zealand: Press release on measles outbreak in Northland.
  • National Public Health Service (NPHS): Information on measles symptoms and prevention.
  • World Health Organization: Information on measles transmission and prevention.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Information on MMR vaccine effectiveness.

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