Health New Zealand is asking secondary school students and their whānau to make sure they are protected against measles before NCEA exams and assessments begin.

The reminder comes as measles outbreaks overseas increase the risk of the highly contagious virus being brought into New Zealand through international travel, particularly following the school holidays, a Health NZ statement said.

National clinical director Dr Susan Jack said a measles case in a school could have significant consequences at a critical time of the year.

“Measles is only a plane ride away, and because it remains common in many parts of the world, there is always a risk that it could be brought into New Zealand through international travel.

“We know NCEA is an important milestone for students and their families. The last thing anyone wants is for students to be dealing with a preventable illness, or the disruption that can follow a measles exposure, during exam season.”

Health NZ said New Zealand’s 2025 measles outbreak highlighted how quickly imported cases could affect schools, workplaces and communities. During the outbreak, 48 confirmed cases were recorded and more than 7500 contacts were identified nationwide, with most cases occurring during October and November.

Health NZ says measles outbreaks overseas increase the risk of the highly contagious virus being brought into New Zealand.

If a measles case is identified in a school, public health teams may need to trace close contacts, assess immunity and take steps to prevent further spread of the virus.

Students and staff who are not immune and have been exposed to measles may be required to stay away from school for a period of time.

“For students preparing for exams and assessments, that can mean interrupted learning, missed classes and additional stress at an already busy time,” Jack said.

“Checking your immunisation status now is one of the simplest things you can do to help protect your health, your education and your school community.”

Health NZ is encouraging people, particularly secondary school students and their families, to ensure they have received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides the best protection against the disease.

People are considered immune if they can show they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine after 12 months of age, or if they were born before 1969.

Those unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider. Health NZ says it is safe to receive an additional MMR vaccination if there is uncertainty about previous immunisations.

Measles symptoms can include fever, cough, a runny nose, red and sore eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face before spreading to the rest of the body.

Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and contact their healthcare provider or Healthline before visiting a clinic or hospital to avoid exposing others.