All international travellers urged to be up to date with measles vaccinations due to NZ outbreaks

All international travellers have been urged to be up to date with their measles vaccinations following measles outbreaks in New Zealand which includes Auckland and Wellington.

In a public advisory, the Health Ministry says if anyone is planning international travel, especially to New Zealand, and have not been vaccinated, or are unsure of their vaccination status, measles vaccine is available free of charge at the health centres.

Measles is a highly infectious airborne viral disease that is spread by coughing and sneezing. You are at risk of getting measles you have not been vaccinated, or you have never had the disease.

The symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, sore and red eyes. A rash starts a few days after these symptoms and spreads all over the body.

There is no specific treatment for measles, as it is the body’s immune system that fights off the disease.

Most people recover from a measles infection in 8‑10 days with rest, and ensuring that they are eating and drinking to avoid dehydration.

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