Measles Public Information
Measles is among the most dangerous of the vaccine preventable diseases, and remains a leading cause of childhood mortality worldwide. It is highly infectious from the onset of early symptoms (such as fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes) until four days after the measles rash appears. Complications are quite common with up to 9% of cases developing otitis media, up to 6% pneumonia, and one in 100 having convulsions. More rarely measles can cause encephalitis, within a week of infection, or insidiously, several years later.
Immunity to vaccine preventable diseases is not good in our community due to years of relatively low vaccination rates. A significant outbreak of measles is quite possible with a real risk of some children experiencing severe illness which may occasionally result in long-term health problems or even death.
Most people born before 1969 will be immune because measles used to be quite common. Everyone else should check that they are up to date with their vaccinations.
GP’s will remind the parents of children who are behind with their MMR vaccinations, but if you know that your child hasn’t had at least one dose (or two if they are four years or over) get in touch and make an appointment.
For more information:
- talk to your family doctor or practice nurse
- call the Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863)
- go to the Immunisation Advisory Centre website or the Ministry of Health website
- measles fact sheet
