Don’t wait – vaccinate against measles

With measles cases increasing internationally, New Zealand remains at risk of imported cases. But vaccination can stop community spread, writes Dr Nikki Turner, principal medical advisor for the Immunisation Advisory Centre

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A surge in measles cases worldwide combined with increased international travel means New Zealand is always one plane ride away from the disease being introduced here. 

But while we can’t prevent measles being introduced, we can – and should – stop community transmission. 

Vaccination is key. Because measles spreads so quickly, ensuring high vaccination rates evenly across communities is critical to preventing outbreaks. Coverage of 95 per cent or greater with two doses of measles-containing vaccine is needed to protect communities.

If we have patches of low coverage, that is how the virus will spread.

It’s really important for children from 12 months of age, and adults who were born after 1969, to be up-to-date with two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Immunisations are free for most and two doses of MMR vaccine are 99 percent effective.

Measles is a hideous disease. We want everyone to be protected. With measles cases rising across the motu, our advice is don’t wait – vaccinate. 

We applaud the response by health authorities and communities in Northland after the first measles cases were confirmed in the region last month – great contact tracing, isolation and huge efforts to get people immunised have helped to stop the spread.

Vaccination is so vital, and the message is important for all individuals and communities – let’s look out for each other.

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