New measles case in Northland
Northland
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora can confirm a new measles case in the Bay of Islands in Northland, likely linked to overseas travel.
The confirmed case was notified to public health services on Thursday 25 September. They are no longer infectious. There are currently six other individuals associated with the confirmed case who are being assessed for measles infection. The six individuals being assessed were identified as part of initial contact tracing efforts. Public health is still identifying close contacts and possible exposure locations.
We strongly urge everyone in the Bay of Islands area to watch out for measles symptoms, and to stay home and seek health advice if you feel unwell. Measles is a serious and highly infectious illness which can affect adults as well as children and babies.
Measles symptoms include:
- an illness that begins with high fever (over 38 C), cough, runny nose, and sore red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- a rash, beginning on the face and gradually spreading down the body to the arms and legs. The rash lasts for up to one week.
Please phone ahead before visiting your doctor or hauora provider so they can take precautions to prevent measles spreading. You can also call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116.