Three new measles cases have been confirmed in Northland, Health NZ said, bringing the total number of cases in the region to nine.
It followed a confirmed but unrelated case of measles in Queenstown earlier this week.
The National Public Health Services (NPHS) was actively managing the outbreak through contact tracing and public health follow-up.
One of the new Northland cases was only identified as a close contact after they became infectious, meaning they may have unknowingly exposed others.
Public health teams were currently tracing locations where this may have occurred.
Symptoms included an illness that begins with high fever (over 38C); cough; runny nose; sore red eyes (conjunctivitis); and a rash, lasting up to one week beginning on the face and gradually spreading down the body to the arms and legs.
While the Northland measles outbreak and the case in Queenstown were unrelated to each other, both had links to recent travel to countries experiencing an outbreak.
“Health New Zealand is alerting the public to an escalating risk of measles globally including in counties New Zealanders travel to frequently such as Australia, Indonesia and North America.
“It is an important reminder for anyone planning international travel to ensure they are up to date with two doses of the MMR vaccine which provides the best protection against measles.”
Kerikeri High School a location of interest
Exposure dates have been confirmed at Kerikeri High School during exam time in early September.
Anyone who was at the school during that period and had experienced a fever or rash — even if they’ve recovered — was urged to call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice. Interpreter services, including support in te reo Māori, were available.
Health NZ said getting immunised with two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine (after the age of 12 months) was the best form of protection against measles.
You can do this at a pharmacy, doctor, nurse or hauora provider.
It is free for anyone 18 years or under, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.
