Canterbury District Health Board says it is working to identify all close contacts of the woman including patients and staff at Burwood who may have been exposed.
Anyone who was in the following locations at the times listed should be aware that they may have been exposed and at risk of developing measles, unless they are sure they’ve had two MMR vaccinations or are over 50 years of age.
If people are not in either of these groups and were in any of the following locations at these times, they should isolate themselves at home until these dates:
- At New World supermarket, Prestons Rd between 5-6pm on September 23 - remain isolated until October 7
- At Fitness Canterbury, Wairakei Rd between 6.15-8.30pm on September 23 - remain isolated until October 7
- At Taiora QEII Recreation and Sports Centre between 6-8am on September 24 - remain isolated until October 8
- At Hoi An Restaurant, Halswell between 7-9pm on September 25 – remain isolated until October 9
Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton said immunisation is the best protection against measles.
"This is especially important for children who haven’t yet had their MMR vaccinations scheduled at 15 months and 4 years. These children are currently a top priority for vaccination.
“If you are unwell and think it might be measles, stay at home and telephone your General Practice team any time of day or night. Please don’t visit your GP team, other health provider or a hospital in person as this will spread the illness. If it’s an emergency call 111,” said Dr Brunton.
People are considered immune if they have received two doses of MMR vaccine, have already had measles previously or were born before 1969 – people born before this time will have been exposed to measles and most will have had it.
"People are infectious from five days before the onset of the rash until four days after the rash appears, so it is possible to transmit the infection before you feel unwell. People who have been exposed and who are not immune should remain isolated for 14 days after their first exposure," she said.
“This means staying home from school or work and having no contact with unimmunised people. If you are not sure whether you are immune telephone your General Practice team – they can advise you,” said Dr Brunton.
More information about the current measles outbreak is available athttps://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/conditions-and-treatments/disease....
