Measles Outbreak Confirmed at Two Wellington Schools

Measles has been confirmed at two schools in Wellington, prompting health officials to take immediate action to prevent further transmission of the highly contagious virus. An email sent to parents by Darrell Harvey, Associate Headmaster of Wellington College, revealed that a Year 11 student diagnosed with measles was infectious while attending classes from October 2 to 4, 2023.

In light of this development, public health officials are contacting students and staff identified as close contacts of the infected individual. Harvey stated that these individuals may be required to stay home to curtail the virus’s spread. In a parallel announcement, Julia Davidson, principal of Wellington Girls’ College, confirmed a separate case at her school, although she did not disclose the year of the student involved.

According to Te Whatu Ora Health NZ, current measles cases are primarily linked to overseas travel. Locations of interest for close contact include Taranaki, Nelson, and Feilding, while casual contact sites are reported in Palmerston North and Auckland. The only previous mention of Wellington in this context refers to an “historic exposure event” aboard a Bluebridge ferry traveling from Picton to Wellington on October 3, 2023.

Measles is recognized as “very contagious” and can lead to severe health complications, such as diarrhoea, chest infections, and brain swelling. Approximately one in three individuals infected with measles may require hospitalization. Symptoms typically present with a fever of at least 38°C, a cough, runny nose, sore and red eyes, and a distinctive rash.

Public health officials stress the importance of vaccination, noting that the measles vaccine is highly effective in preventing the illness. Currently, New Zealand’s immunity to measles is worryingly low, as insufficient vaccination rates leave the population at a heightened risk for outbreaks.

As health authorities continue their outreach, they urge parents to ensure their children are vaccinated and to remain vigilant about symptoms associated with measles.