Measles threat reduces in Bay

The threat of measles in the Bay of Plenty is reducing with the last confirmed case in the region reported in December.

BOP District Health Board Medical Officer of Health Dr Phil Shoemack says while Auckland continues to report the occasional case the risk of getting measles in the BOP has reduced significantly. 

“General practices have therefore been advised to go back to offering the MMR vaccine at the usual ages of 15 months and four years. 

“It remains important for parents to ensure their children receive both doses of the vaccine for protection from measles.

During the outbreak parents with children from 12-months-old were offered the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine, with a second dose offered 28 days later.

Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever, cough and sore eyes.

This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

“Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. Complications can include diarrhoea, ear infections, pneumonia, and more rarely, brain inflammation.”

Phil says anyone who thinks their child or someone in their family may have measles is advised to stay at home and phone their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice.