Immunisation is the best protection against measles. It’s more important than ever for
people to check they are protected.

With active measles cases increasing around the world, and falling vaccination rates,
Aotearoa New Zealand is at very high risk of a measles outbreak.
Not enough people living in New Zealand are immunised against measles – just 1 case
could start an outbreak. We need at least 95% of people to be immunised to prevent
this.

Measles is a very contagious viral illness that spreads easily between people and makes
most people feel very unwell. It can also cause serious health problems, including
runny poos (diarrhoea), chest infections and brain swelling. About 1 in 3 people with
measles will need hospital care. The measles vaccine is very effective at preventing
measles.

TWO DOSES OF VACCINE ARE REQUIRED FOR IMMUNITY
The MMR vaccine is free to anyone born after 1969.

• People born before 1969 are believed to be at lower risk because they were likely
  exposed as a child.
• Were you born between 1969 and 2004? You might not have had 2 doses and
  be fully protected against measles.
• If you’re not sure that you’re fully immunised, check your MMH, or with your
  Plunket or Well Child book, or your doctor/nurse to make sure you’ve had both
  doses of the MMR vaccine.
  
  If you haven’t had both doses, or you’re not sure, play it safe and get
  immunised. There’s no additional risk with getting an extra dose.