Health New Zealand is encouraging people to monitor for measles symptoms, such as a fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and a rash, after a measles case was confirmed in Queenstown on Monday 29 September. It’s also important to check the published Locations of Interest (external link) in case they may have come into contact with measles cases.

Now is a great time to check if you and your family are protected against measles and to get immunised if you need it, says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Michael Butchard.

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 under the age of 18 years old, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.

“People who haven’t had two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine should get another, as extra doses are safe.”

A pop-up clinic offering MMR vaccinations will be available at Rees House, Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton on:

  • Monday 6 October from 11 am – 4 pm
  • Tuesday 7 October from 9 am – 4 pm

There’s no need to book — just drop in, or if you would like to book an appointment call 03 450 9156.

“Pharmacies are a great option for adults and children over 3 years old to get immunised. There are plenty of pharmacies offering these services now – seven days a week.”

To find a pharmacy offering immunisations near you, visit info.health.nz/locations/otago-southland/community-immunisation-clinics-otago-southland (external link).

A free Vaccination Helpline is also available Monday to Friday, 8.30 am – 5 pm on 0800 28 29 26. You can also contact your GP or hauora provider during their usual available hours.

Vaccine appointments can also be booked online if you want to get it scheduled in advance. These can be booked with a pharmacy, your doctor, nurse, or hauora provider. Visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine (external link).