Update

Measles Update

We’ve been made aware that there are several measles cases in the Wellington region.

The first symptoms of measles can look very similar to a cold, COVID-19, or the flu, which means it can be hard to recognise at first. Early symptoms include:

• Fever (temperature of at least 38°C)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sore, red eyes

A rash usually appears 3–5 days after these early symptoms start.

• The rash looks like pink or red spots or bumps.
• It starts on the face and then spreads down the body.
• It may be harder to see on darker skin.
• The rash is not usually itchy and may last a week or more.

Measles can spread very easily and can cause serious illness. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your whānau.

Please do not visit the clinic without calling us first as it is highly contagious. We are still able to help we just need to protect our staff and patients.

People with measles should avoid contact with others, especially pregnant women or anyone with weak immunity.

MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella) Vaccination – Who Needs It?

Age 70 and over:

• You do not need an MMR vaccination. Most people in this age group have natural immunity from childhood exposure to measles.

People in their mid-50s to 60s:

• You are very unlikely to need MMR.
• It may be considered if you are travelling to a country with high measles rates.
• If unsure, talk to your healthcare provider.

Adults younger than mid-50s:

• If you do not have a clear record of two MMR doses or have not had confirmed measles, you should be vaccinated.
• Adults require 2 doses, given at least 4 weeks apart.

Children:

• The routine immunisation schedule is:
  • 1st dose at 12 months
  • 2nd dose at 15 months
• If your child has missed one or both doses, they can catch up safely.
• If your child received an MMR dose before 12 months (e.g., while overseas or during an outbreak), they still need the routine doses at 12 and 15 months.

Children vaccinated overseas:

• Vaccine schedules vary between countries.
• We can provide catch-up doses if needed.

How do I check if I/my child is immunised?

• If you are unsure if you or your child has had two immunisations, you can check:
  • Your Tamariki Ora/Well Child/Plunket book
• Vaccination Helpline free phone 0800 28 29 26
• Immunisations – My Health Record | Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora – a parent named on NZ birth certificate can sign up and view immunisation records for tamariki under 12
• Your medical centre or primary health care provider

Appointment Reminder

Please note that due to increased demand and limited unplanned care availability, we kindly request that you call ahead before visiting the clinic without an appointment. Our clinicians are dedicated to scheduled patient care, and accommodating unplanned visits may compromise patient safety. Calling ahead allows us to serve you better and manage your healthcare needs effectively.

Important Information for Medicinal Cannabis Clinic Patients

For patients under the care of a medicinal cannabis clinic, please be aware that it is outside our scope of practice to prescribe or monitor medicinal cannabis use and/or its interaction with prescription medicines. While we support all collaborative healthcare efforts, we cannot be held accountable for treatments provided by other clinics. However, it is essential for us to know if you are under such care to ensure comprehensive management of your health.

Government Announcement: Changes to Pharmacy Dispensing