As you know, there is a large and increasing measles outbreak in Auckland with over 800 confirmed cases and over 900 cases nationally. Measles is likely to continue in NZ for months with travel, school holidays, interschool events and tournaments increasing the likelihood of further measles spread.
The Auckland Regional Health Board has said that it is important to make sure you're immunised (have had two doses of the MMR vaccine) two weeks before travelling to Auckland. Getting vaccinated at least two weeks before you go allows the immunity to develop. If you are unsure whether you are fully vaccinated please contact your local GP.
Those who aren’t immune or who have early symptoms of measles (fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes or a rash) should not travel.
Safeguarding you from measles by being fully vaccinated will help protect you and others, especially those at risk of complications from disease.
Check the table below to see if you and your whanau are protected from measles
YEAR BORN? | PROTECTED? | RECOMMENDED ACTION? |
Born before 1 January 1969 in NZ | Yes, assumed protected as measles was common in NZ at this time. | No action required. |
Born between 1969 and 1980 (inclusive) in NZ | Probably not – received only 1 measles vaccine which may have been given at 10 months of age when less effective. | Get a second MMR vaccine. |
Born between 1981 to 1990 (inclusive) | Protected if you had two measles vaccines. | Check if you have had two measles vaccines. If in doubt, get a second MMR vaccine. |
Born between 1991-1996 in NZ | People born 1991 - 96 may not have had a second measles vaccine. This was when the second MMR vaccine was changed from 11 to 4 years. Children aged 5 to 10 years at this time were offered catch up MMR vaccine through schools. | Check if you have had two measles vaccines. If in doubt, get a second MMR vaccine. |
Born in NZ from 1 January 1997 | Protected if you have had two measles vaccines – usually given at 12-15 months and then at four years. | Check if you have had two measles vaccines. If in doubt, get a second MMR vaccine. |