Seven measles cases have been confirmed at the IPU New Zealand in Palmerston North, according to MidCentral DHB Sunday.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr Greg Simmons said “The MidCentral Public Health Service is working closely with the Institute who are following all recommendations. Public Health will continue to work with the Institue to provide assistance and trace the contacts of the confirmed cases.”
“Measles is a very infectious disease so anyone who is not immune to measles is at risk if they come in to contact with the disease. It spreads from person to person through the air from breathing, coughing and sneezing, and contact with those secretions. The disease is contagious from just before symptoms begin until about five days after onset of the rash. The illness usually starts between 10 and 14 days after contact with the measles virus.”
“Measles symptoms include: fever, runny nose, cough, and sore red eyes. After 3-5 days a rash appears on the head and spreads down the body.
“Anyone who thinks they may have measles should stay away from work, school or public places. If you think you might have measles, you should contact your GP (by phone first) or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for more advice. It is very important you tell your GP that you think you might have measles before going into the surgery.
“These cases are a reminder that measles can occur at any time. Vaccination is the best way for people to protect themselves against measles and is free to those who need it. You can protect both yourself and the community by getting vaccinated.”
Related:
