Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore red eyes and a rash that begins on the face. Photo: Supplied/ US CDC
This article's headline has been amended to say four cases have been identified.
Four measles cases have been identified in Northland, with one confirmed case and three historical cases.
Health New Zealand said this included the case reported on Friday, plus three cases that were no longer infectious.
National clinical director for protection Dr Susan Jack said one of the historical cases had previously travelled to Asia, where measles was circulating and was considered the source case.
"Four other people associated with the confirmed case are still being assessed for measles infection," she said. "Three of these were reported yesterday and one additional person was also subsequently identified.
"All are in isolation, being monitored for symptoms and receiving support from public health. Public health is working to rapidly identify close contacts and ensure these people quarantine as required."
Bay of Islands community urged to monitor for symptoms
People in the Bay of Islands were urged to monitor for symptoms, with possible undetected measles in the community since early September.
"While health staff are actively addressing this issue to reduce further spread of measles, it's crucial that we identify any new cases as quickly as possible," Jack said.
Measles symptoms include:
- An illness that begins with high fever (over 38 C), cough, runny nose and sore red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- A rash, beginning on the face, and gradually spreading down the body to the arms and legs. The rash lasts for up to one week.
"Healthline is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day and has interpreters for those who need them," Jack said.
"If you need to go to a healthcare facility, call first and tell the healthcare professional that you have measles symptoms. This will help them take steps to keep other people safe.
"If you need an in-person appointment, wear a well-fitting mask to protect others.
"Anyone in the Bay of Islands area, who recently had measles symptoms, but has since recovered, should still call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice."
The Bay of Islands Hospital had been identified as a location of interest, with exposure events in September, Jack said.
People who entered the main hospital entrance - including those visiting outpatient, GP, laboratory, X-ray, emergency or maternity services - during the [https://info.health.nz/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/about-measles/measles-locations-of-interest-in-aotearoa-new-zealand
following times] should monitor for symptoms until 11 October:
- Between 11.30pm, 19 September and 2.30am, 20 September
- Saturday, 20 September, between 1.45-7pm
An immunisation clinic would be open at Bay of Islands Hospital on Sunday between 10am-4pm.
"If you aren't immunised or aren't sure, immunisation clinics provide a great chance to kōrero about immunisations and check if your whānau need them," Jack said.
"Getting immunised with two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine after the age of 12 months is the best form of protection against measles. The MMR vaccine is free in New Zealand for anyone 18 years or under, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.
"You can also book a vaccination appointment with a pharmacy, your doctor, nurse or hauora provider. Visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine for a list of vaccination sites in your area."
More information, including details of locations of interest, is available at info.health.nz.
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