One more measles case confirmed in Tairawhiti

7 December 2011

Tairawhiti District Health today continued to urge all people not already protected against measles to get immunisation immediately, following the confirmed diagnosis of a third case of measles in the district. Vaccination is free for anyone born after 1969.

Of the four suspected cases over the past weekend, just one case has proved positive for the virus. This case, a young adult, has been to several social events in the region and in contact with many people.

TDH Medical Officer of Health, Dr Geoffrey Cramp, said that as a result, people and students who are not immune had been excluded from work and from school. “This has a big impact on them especially over these busy summer days.”

Dr Cramp said it was very important that children are immunised, but it is also important that anyone younger than the age of 42 checks that they are immune. “Someone is only considered immune if they have had two documented MMRs so if there is any doubt an MMR should be given immediately and another one in a month’s time.”

“If you hoping to become pregnant, it is also very important to get the MMR if you are not already immune.” Pregnant women and babies are at high risk if exposed to someone with measles.

ENDS

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For further information:

Dr Bruce Duncan                                                          or         Kathy McVey

Medical Officer of Health                                               Communications Manager

Tairawhiti District Health                                                 Tairawhiti District Health

06 869-0500                                                                  021 223-7094