There have been several cases of measles in Canterbury recently and significant outbreaks overseas. Please contact us if you have never had a MMR vaccination.
What is Measles?
Measles is a serious and highly contagious disease which typically hospitalises 10% of people who catch it. Up to 30% can develop complications – usually children under 5 and adults over 20 years. Measles during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature labour and low birth weight in babies. It is spread through droplets in the air and through contact so that anyone unprotected who has been in the same room as someone with measles will likely get it.
What are the symptoms?
Dry cough, runny nose, headache, temperature over 38.5 degC and feeling very unwell. Red, blotchy rash starts on day 4-5 of the illness, usually on the face and moving to the chest and arms
More information can be found on https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/conditions-and-treatments/diseases-and-illnesses/measles