HSN is closely monitoring the current measles situation in Northland and we are sharing this important health information for our community and kaimahi (staff).
Measles cases have been confirmed in Northland, with a risk of undetected transmission since early September. Cases have also been identified in Queenstown and the public is urged to check the latest Locations of Interest.
Monitor for Measles Symptoms
If you live in or have visited Northland, Queenstown, or Cromwell since early September, please monitor yourself for measles symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure.
Measles Symptoms Include:
- An illness that begins with high fever (over 38C), 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 a week or more.
What to Do if You Develop Symptoms
STAY HOME and CALL AHEAD to prevent spreading the infection.
- Contact your healthcare provider, or
- Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice, 24/7.
- Deaf people and those with speech difficulties can use NZ Relay to call these numbers.
- If you must visit a healthcare facility, call first to alert them, and wear a well-fitting mask.
Check Your Immunisation Status
Getting immunised with two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine (after the age of 12 months) is the best protection.
- The MMR vaccine is FREE in New Zealand for anyone under 18 years, and for people eligible for free healthcare.
- Parents: Please check your children’s immunisation status and keep unwell children home from school/kura.
- International Travel: Measles is circulating widely overseas. Ensure you are up to date with your MMR vaccinations before travelling internationally. If you are not fully immunised and have returned from overseas, monitor for symptoms for 21 days.
How to Get Immunised
You can book a vaccination appointment with a pharmacy, your doctor, nurse, or hauora provider.
- Book online for sites across New Zealand: info.health.nz/bookavaccine
- Northland Residents: Check our website for details on local Community Immunisation Clinics—no booking or enrolment needed. Community immunisation clinic schedules — Northland
- Vaccination Helpline: Call 0800 28 29 26 (8.30am to 5pm, Mon-Fri) for information on checking if you are fully protected. Measles immunity
Helpful Links
We encourage you to share this information widely with your networks to help keep our community safe.
| Information | Link/Contact |
| Locations of Interest (Please check regularly if you have been in Northland, Queenstown, or Cromwell since early September) | Measles: Locations of interest in Aotearoa New Zealand |
| Easy Read, Braille, Large Print & Audio Information | Measles (Information about measles in Easy Read, Braille, Large Print and Audio) |
| General Measles Information | For more information about Measles |
| NZSL: Measles Announcement | NZSL: Measles Announcement on Vimeo |
| NZ Relay Service (for Deaf people and those with speech difficulties) | https://www.nzrelay.co.nz/ |
