More Suspect Cases in Christchurch Measles Outbreak

Canterbury District Health Board’s Community and Public Health Division has  identified another six teenagers and children likely to have measles, following confirmation late last week that four Christchurch Boys High School pupils had  the disease.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton said, “the majority of people being identified with the disease had not received their MMR vaccinations which would protect them against Measles, Mumps and Rubella.”

“All parents, particularly those concerned that their children could be at risk in this outbreak, should check their children’s immunisation record and if they have not been immunised contact their GP and arrange for it to be done,” she said.

Work on tracing contacts of the sick people will continue in the coming week.

Measles, sometimes known as English Measles, is a viral infection that can lead to ear infections, pneumonia and/or diarrhoea.  Sometimes it can cause serious problems such as inflammation (swelling) of the brain.  

Dr Brunton said, “the people who are unwell are being isolated at home and their close contacts are being advised to stay at home for several days unless they have had two MMR immunisations which would give them immunity from the disease.”

Anyone who is concerned that they or a family member may have measles should phone their GP. Symptoms of the disease include fever, red eyes (conjunctivitis), runny nose, spots on the inside of the mouth and a rash which appears in days three to seven of the illness. 

Parents of Christchurch Boys’ High School pupils are advised to visit the School’s website (www.cbhs.school.nz) for further information.

ENDS