As with all such outbreaks, there is a risk of measles cases appearing in Wellington – especially with people likely to travel during the upcoming school holidays.
People are not at risk of measles if they were born before 1969, or have previously had measles. Those who have received either one or two doses of the measles vaccine will likely also have long-term immunity.
If you are not immune, or do not know if you are, you should contact your GP in the first instance. The MMR vaccine is free from GPs and medical centres.
Please remember that if you have already had one dose of vaccine, you will likely already have long-term immunity – the Ministry of Health is asking people who have had one dose to delay seeing their GP so vaccine stocks can be prioritised for those who have never been immunised.
If you have children, you may wish to discuss vaccination with your GP to see if it is necessary to bring forward your child’s scheduled vaccination.
Those who have never been vaccinated, and who have been exposed to measles should remain in isolation to avoid exposing others.
If you believe you are sick and require medical attention, please stay at home and contact your GP or Healthline (0800 611 116) in the first instance.
Families with unvaccinated children should consider whether travel is essential.
Further information is available from Regional Public Health.
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