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 Media Releases No further cases of measles in Northland No further cases of measles in Northland
Tuesday, 06 April 2010
Northland District Health Board advise no increase in the number of confirmed cases of measles in the Northland region. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation working with local health provider Hokianga Health, who has boosted efforts to contact parents of unvaccinated children. Supported by Northland DHB public health nurses, Hokianga Health have increased their immunisation outreach clinics for parents who wish to immunise their child against a number of childhood illnesses such as measles.
Free of charge, the clinics are being scheduled to meet parent demand, so book your appointment today:
If parents are concerned they have missed their clinic appointment or need further information they should contact Lyn Foster at Hokianga Health on mobile 021-457712. Immunisation is also available to adults born after 1969, who do not have immunity, contact Lyn Foster for further information. Northland DHB Medical Officer of Health Dr Loek Henneveld is urging parents to keep a close eye on their childrens health, "Initally measles will fool you into thinking it's a bad cold or the flu, the rash doesn't appear for days, if in doubt call your doctor, especially if your child is not vaccinated". Measles has the potential to make children very sick for one to two weeks. A number of rash-causing illnesses can appear to be very similar to measles. The tell-tale rash associated with Measles does not appear for several days after the onset of Measles. Often mistaken for influenza or a bad cold this is when the virus is at its most contagious. It is crucial to avoid large gatherings and seek medical advice. "Measles is a vaccine preventable disease - Immunisation is your best protection" said Dr Henneveld. If your child is sick seek advice from your doctor or practice nurse, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116. Symptoms of Measles:
The best things you can do to stop the spread of Measles is to stay at home and call your doctor. If you or a family member become sick, stay home and telephone your doctor or local health provider. This is to prevent you from infecting others. It is estimated that 90 to 95 per cent of people are protected from measles after one dose, and 99% protected once they have had both doses. More information about immunisation and the National Immunisation Schedule is available at http://www.moh.govt.nz/immuniation. The Immunisation Advisory Centre offers independent advice about immunisation through its toll-free line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) and at its website http://www.immune.org.nz/. -Ends-
Northland DHB Spokesperson:
For further information, please contact: |
