Reopening international borders and low immunisation rates, has increased the chances of disease outbreaks including measles. (Worldwide, reported measles cases increased by 79% in the first two months of 2022 compared to the same time last year.) Measles only occurs in New Zealand when it is brought into the country.

Measles is even more contagious than COVID and can be life-threatening to those who have not been vaccinated. It is important to be able to quickly identify anyone who might be at risk during an outbreak.

· Students should always stay home if they are sick.

· Every student/caregiver should know their vaccination status – check your WellChild book or ask your doctor.

· If you’re not sure you/your child have been vaccinated against measles, it’s best to get immunised. It is free for anyone born after 1969, who has not had two Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations or if you don’t have any proof of vaccination. There are no safety concerns with having additional MMR doses.

· Two doses of the MMR vaccine are required.

· You can have an MMR vaccine at the same time as your COVID-19 or influenza vaccine.

· You can get your MMR vaccination at participating pharmacies, your GP or family doctor, and the Dunedin and Civic Theatre Immunisation Centre in Invercargill.

For more information about measles and a full list of where to get your MMR vaccination visit: Southern Measles

For more information about measles and the MMR vaccination visit here (Ministry of Health), here (Health Navigator) here (KidsHealth – Paediatric Society of NZ and Starship Foundation) or here (The Immunisation Advisory Centre).

Please contact your Public Health Nurse if you would like more information or email: publichealthnursing@southerndhb.govt.nz

If you require other educational material or posters to display, please email: MMR@southerndhb.govt.nz