“Tino Rangatiratangatia tō hauora”

- Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po

Kia ora e te whānau,

This pānui briefly covers what measles is and the main symptoms, who is most at risk, how immunisation protects mokopuna, which vaccine Aotearoa uses and its safety, what to do if someone is unwell or exposed and who to contact in your rohe to check records, book vaccines and get advice.


What is measles?

Measles is a very contagious viral illness. A person can spread it from 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after it starts, which is why it can move quickly through early learning settings. One case can infect many others if people are not immune.
 

The risks

Measles can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications, especially for pēpi, pregnant people and those who are immunocompromised. Keeping immunisation up to date protects our whole whānau, including those who cannot be vaccinated.
 

How to keep mokopuna and whānau safe

• Make sure everyone is up to date with the MMR vaccine – it’s free for anyone under 18 years old. After one dose about 95% of people are protected, after two doses about 99% are protected. We aim for at least 95% coverage in our communities to stop outbreaks.

• If you are unsure whether you or your mokopuna have had two MMR doses, call Health NZ’s immunisation records line on 0800 282 926 to check, 8.30am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday. For ages 13 and over, book with the Vaccination Helpline / Book My Vaccine on 0800 282 926, 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, or book online. For under-13s, contact your usual doctor or nurse. Many pharmacies can vaccinate from age 3, you can find one near you on Healthpoint.

• The vaccine used in Aotearoa is Priorix. It protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses, at least a month apart, give the best protection. Priorix is a live, weakened vaccine and contains no porcine products. There is no measles-only vaccine in Aotearoa. 

Vaccine safety

Most whānau feel fine after MMR, maybe a slightly sore arm or a mild fever that passes on its own. Sometimes a small rash can show up about a week later. The team will keep an eye on you for about 20 minutes after the jab, this is standard for all vaccines. Serious reactions are very rare. If anything worries you later, you can call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for a quick kōrero.

If someone is unwell

• Infectious Diseases - Understanding the early signs of Mokopuna being exposed and feeling unwell can help us respond quickly and care for their well-being.

• Are the Mokopuna immunisation records current?

• Keep them at home, and away from large gatherings, kōhanga, kura, kaumātua, pēpi and anyone who may be at higher risk. Open windows for fresh air, cough or sneeze into elbows and keep hands clean.

• Call your GP or Healthline 0800 611 116 for free, 24/7 advice. Please call first before visiting a clinic so they can keep others safe. In an emergency call 111.

• A person with measles is contagious from 4 days before the rash until 4 days after it starts. Follow isolation advice from your health provider or Public Health. 

Pātai, who to contact in your rohe

• Your usual GP, Māori or Pacific health provider, or local pharmacy can advise and vaccinate. If you need contacts in your area, use Healthpoint to find services nearby, or call Healthline 0800 611 116 any time.

• If your kōhanga is advised of exposure in the community, kaimahi will share next steps from local Public Health. If there are cases in your Kōhanga Reo you will be advised what to do to keep them safe. 

Keeping everyone safe

Immunisation is our best protection for mokopuna and whānau. If you are unsure, please check your records and get booked today. If you have symptoms or concerns, call Healthline or your provider for advice.

Compliance – Kōhanga Reo Tūtohinga

Now's a good time to check your Tūtohinga Health and Safety policies and procedures. Check that they're up to date and give clear guidance for everyone, whether vaccinated or not. The health and wellbeing of all our whānau is our priority.

“Mana motuhaketia tō pā harakeke”

- Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po

 

Ngā manaakitanga,
Te Kōhanga Reo National Trust