Two new cases of measles has been confirmed in Auckland, linked to overseas travel.

Locations of interest include Auckland International Airport and Waitākere Hospital's emergency department.

Health officials are attempting to contact people on flight SQ281 from Singapore.

See more information on locations of interest here

Measles symptoms include:

• illness that begins with high fever (over 38 C), 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 for up to one week.

The MMR vaccine is free in New Zealand for anyone 18 years or under, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.

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For healthcare professionals:

• Take a nasopharyngeal swab (preferred) or throat swab for measles PCR. Do not test for serology. 

• DO NOT send the patient to community labs for testing. 

• If measles is suspected in the clinic isolate immediately; advise any patients to isolate at home until contacted by public health. 

• Notify immediately on suspicion to public health via eReferral AND call 09 623 4600 to inform the on-call Medical officer of health.   

• Follow usual infection, prevention and control for any suspected measles cases. 

• Prioritise MMR vaccination activity in practices (recall and opportunistic). 

‍Find quick access to measles resources for health professionals here

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