19 December, 2025 In News By Janine Clarke

Measles Update

Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious and potentially long-term health problems. People with measles often feel very unwell, but you may be contagious even before you get any symptoms.
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.

How to check your immunity status:

People can check their immunity status by visiting info.health.nz/measles-immunity(external link) or call the Vaccination Helpline 0800 28 29 26.
Note, the digital records only started in 2005, so vaccines prior to this will most likely not be available to the resources above, or to us at Papanui Medical Centre

What to do if you feel unwell:

We strongly encourage anyone who is feeling unwell to stay at home and to contact Healthline or Papanui Medical Centre if you have any symptoms of measles, even if you have not been at one of the known locations of interest.  You can call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116 for information and advice.  If you suspect you may have measles, please phone ahead before visiting us, so that precautions can be taken to prevent measles spreading.

How to book in for a vaccination:

If you believe you require a measles/MMR booster based on the criteria above, please book in to see a nurse by calling reception.
Please note, there are contraindications to receiving this vaccination, such as immunosuppression and pregnancy. Please read the following information before booking in for a vaccination: https://www.immune.org.nz/vaccine/priorix
If you remain unsure of whether you require a booster/vaccination, please give us a call or speak with your GP at your next appointment.

More info:

Please refer to the following websites for further information/advice:
https://www.immune.org.nz/vaccine/priorix