New Zealand Launches Urgent Vaccination Campaign to Combat Measles

Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) has initiated a nationwide campaign, dubbed Measles Immunisation Week, to combat the rising threat of measles. Health Minister Simeon Brown emphasized the urgency of vaccination, stating, “Measles is one of the most infectious viruses in the world, and a single case can infect 12 to 18 unvaccinated people.” He highlighted that those who are not immunized face a 90% chance of contracting the virus if exposed.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, urging individuals of all ages to get vaccinated promptly. “Extra clinics are running throughout the week. If your child is 12 months or older and hasn’t yet had the MMR vaccine, don’t delay,” Minister Brown added. He also encouraged individuals born between 1969 and 2004 to verify their vaccination status, noting that achieving 95% immunity within the population is crucial to prevent outbreaks.

Everyone in New Zealand aged 12 months or over is eligible for free MMR immunisations. In light of updated guidance from the Director-General of Health, Associate Education Minister David Seymour stressed the importance of ensuring that children remain in school. He stated, “If there hasn’t been a confirmed case of measles at a school, all students should continue attending, regardless of their vaccination status.”

In the event of a confirmed measles case, HNZ’s National Public Health Service will cross-reference school attendance rolls with the Aotearoa Immunisation Register. Students who have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine may be required to stay home only if identified as close contacts. Seymour remarked on the impact of COVID-19 on school attendance, asserting, “We’re taking a balanced and rational approach. While measles is dangerous and we’re taking it seriously, school closures or blanket exclusions are not justified where there is no direct risk.”

The urgency of the campaign is underscored by confirmed measles cases in multiple regions, including Northland, Auckland, Taranaki, Wellington, and Nelson. HNZ has reported evidence of community transmission, indicating that the situation is more serious than just imported cases.

For those wishing to participate in Measles Immunisation Week, appointments can be made at bookmyvaccine.health.nz. The Vaccination Helpline is available at 0800 282 926 from Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 21:00, and weekends from 08:30 to 14:00. Further information regarding vaccination status can be found at info.health.nz/measles.