Infection hazard

Five new cases of measles have been confirmed, spread across both the North and South Islands.One is in Dunedin, three are in Auckland, and one is in Waikato.Te Whatu Ora says the new cases bring the number of known cases nationally since 8 October to 27, with 22 of these no longer infectious."This increase in cases is concerning and demonstrates the highly contagious nature of measles," Te Whatu Ora said in a statement."We expect there could be more cases. The National Public Health Service continues to investigate potential cases and will continue to update locations of interest as they are known."Our goal is to stamp out measles as cases are notified, and contact tracing is an important element of this approach. "Health NZ said people should stay up-to-date with locations of interest online, check their immunisation status, and if need be get vaccinated - especially if planning to travel overseas."Two doses of the MMR vaccine (after the age of 12 months) protect about 99 percent of people from getting measles."It said people should allow two weeks for immunity to develop following vaccination, and also encouraged those returning from overseas to monitor for symptoms.Those with measles symptoms, including fever, cough, runny or red eyes, and a rash starting at the face, should contact Healthline on 0800 611 116, or their usual healthcare provider.