9.4.2019
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) has been notified of three new measles cases, taking the number of confirmed cases in Auckland for this year to 15.
Medical Officer of Health Dr William Rainger says the new cases are in isolation and ARPHS is following up with contacts in family, household, education, healthcare and social settings to prevent spread of the disease.
“At this stage, we believe the new cases are linked to other pre-existing cases, rather than being new cases from overseas or of unknown origin.”
Two of the three cases – all females aged less than two years - live in West Auckland, with the third case from the North Shore.
Anyone who hasn’t already received a phone call, text message or email from Auckland Regional Public Health Service and who was at the following locations at the following times is being asked to call public health on 09 623 4600 as a precaution in case they have been exposed:
|
Location |
Date |
Time |
|
White Cross Henderson 24/7, Lincoln Road |
1 April 2019 3 April 2019 4 April 2019 |
Between 5pm and 10pm Between 12 midday and 3pm Between 10.45am and 5pm |
|
Wai Health Clinic Henderson, 6-8 Pioneer Street / Corner Edsel & Catherine Streets |
4 April 2019 |
Between 1pm and 4pm |
|
Ranui Medical Centre, Swanson Road, Ranui |
2 April 2019 |
Between midday and 2pm
|
|
White Cross Urgent Care and GP, Glenfield |
4 April 2019 |
Between 6.30pm and 8.45pm |
|
Waitakere Hospital Emergency Department, Lincoln Rd, Henderson |
4 April 2019 5 April 2019 6 April 2019 |
Between 4.45pm and 10.30pm Between 4pm and 10pm |
Dr Rainger says other advice for the public remains unchanged.
“We would remind people to be vigilant for the signs and symptoms of measles – fever, cough, runny nose and sore red eyes. After three to five days, a rash appears on the face and then moves down the body.”
People with measles can spread it to others even before they start feeling sick, so often don’t know that they might be exposing others.
Dr Rainger says immunisation is the best protection against measles and anyone unsure if they’re immune should check their health records. This includes their Well Child/Plunket book, or asking their usual doctor or practice nurse.
“If you think you or your child may have measles, it’s important to call your doctor or healthcare centre before turning up so you can be isolated on arrival.”
For more information or advice on measles, please call Healthline on 0800 611 116 or see the our measles page or Ministry of Health websites.