Measles Update: What You and Your Whaanau Need to Know

📰 UPDATED 4 December 2025

Kia ora whānau. This is a critical health update regarding the measles situation in Aotearoa. Staying informed and knowing what steps to take is the best way to protect yourself and your family as we head into the summer holidays.

The Current Picture in Aotearoa:

The number of known measles cases nationally has increased. The total number of cases since the start of the outbreak (October 8th) is now 27. Worryingly, the virus is now more widespread across the motu.

There is now one confirmed case of measles in the Waikato community. This is the first case in Waikato and the second case within the wider Te Manawa Taki region.

Locations of Interest: National Public Health Services continue to identify locations where an infectious person has visited. It is essential to check the official website for the latest locations of interest, as these are updated frequently: 🔗 Measles: Location of Interest in Aotearoa New Zealand

Heading into the Holidays:

With summer travel approaching, we are strongly encouraging everyone to  🔗 check their immunisation status. It takes two weeks for immunity to develop after a dose of the MMR vaccine, so please act now if you or your whānau are not protected, especially if planning travel overseas.

Continue reading for a breakdown of measles symptoms and what to do if you suspect you or a loved one is unwell.

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The best defense against measles is preparation. In this video, Dr. Hina from the Ministry of Health discusses why measles is so contagious, why the MMR is the best form of protection, and what to do if you are unsure of your immunity status.

We want you and your whānau to feel empowered to take simple actions to stay safe.

The best protection against measles is to have two doses of the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) after 12 months of age.

✅ The MMR vaccine is safe and is free for anyone under the age of 18, and for those eligible for free healthcare.

Whānau can get vaccinated at most pharmacies, doctors, nurses, and Pacific or Hauora Māori providers.

📍 Find a vaccination site near you: 🔗 info.health.nz/bookavaccine

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Need Help Checking Your Immunisation Status?

It can be hard to remember if you or your tamariki have had both doses! You can get help checking your status:

• Visit 🔗 info.health.nz/measles

• Call the Vaccination Helpline on 0800 28 29 26 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5pm). Interpreters are available, and you can speak with a Māori advisor, disability advisor, or use NZ Relay.

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Understanding Measles

Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness that can affect pēpi (babies), tamariki (children), rangatahi (youth), and pakeke (adults). Knowing the symptoms is key to acting quickly.

Measles Symptoms to Look Out For:

• High fever (over 38∘C)

• Cough, runny nose, and sore red eyes

• A rash that usually appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading down the body, lasting up to a week.

If you or your whānau have these symptoms, here is the most important step:

⚠️ STAY HOME and seek medical advice right away.

📞 Call ahead before visiting your doctor or hauora provider so they can take steps to protect others. You can also call Healthline for free, any time, on 0800 611 116.