Aucklanders warned about measles

People are being warned to be vigilant about the spread of measles, after two apparently unconnected cases in two families were confirmed in the Auckland region.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is expecting more measles cases after these cases were reported, and is urging people to take measles seriously.

Dr Brad Novak, medical officer of health at Auckland Regional Public Health Service, said measles spread easily through the air, especially from coughing and sneezing - and was highly infectious.

It commonly caused ear infections and pneumonia, and may lead to other serious complications.

It could, in some cases, be fatal, Dr Novak said.

He advised parents to check their children's immunisation record and get their children immunised.

"Immunisation is free and it's the only effective way to protect against the disease. The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is given in two doses, normally at 15 months and 4 years of age giving over 95 per cent protection.

"Parents should check that their children's immunisations are up-to-date. Check your child's Plunket (Well Child) book, or check with your child's GP or practice nurse," Dr Novak said.

He urged people who were not up-to-date with immunisations to contact their GP or practice nurse and arrange to catch up as soon as possible.

"This is a timely reminder to people not sure about their children's, or their own, immunity to measles to talk to their GP or practice nurse about it now," he said.

Dr Novak said symptoms to watch out for included a red rash that started on the face and moved to the rest of the body.

Children with measles were often quite sick with runny nose, cough, sore eyes or fever as well as the rash. The rash came on after a few days and lasts up to one week.

Anyone who suspected they or someone in their family may have measles should call their GP or practice nurse for advice, rather than heading straight in to see a doctor.

This could help them to prevent the spread of the disease to others in the waiting room.

People were advised to seek medical help if they were concerned about a family member who was unwell or if their condition was getting worse.

- NZPA