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Measles Outbreak – Important Information for Families
31 Oct 2025
We have received the following important information from the Ministry of Education for parents, caregivers, and our communities. Please look at it to find out how to protect your whānau and community.
What is the current situation with the measles outbreak?
- Measles is circulating in New Zealand and is a very contagious disease. There is now measles in Northland, Auckland, Manawatu, Nelson and Wellington, and we expect further cases across New Zealand.
- Health New Zealand is actively working with the schools that currently have measles cases.
- Watch out for symptoms – fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and a blotchy rash. See more info here: Measles – Health New Zealand
What to do if I or a family member has symptoms?
- Anyone with measles symptoms must stay at home and should seek urgent advice by ringing their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116.
- Anyone who is closely exposed to a measles case must stay at home. Heath New Zealand will provide individuals with advice on a case-by-case basis (including when they can leave quarantine at home).
How do I know if I and my family are immune?
- People are considered immune to measles after having two doses of a measles vaccine from 12 months or older, or if they have had measles before. For more information on measles immunity visit:
Measles immunity – Health New Zealand
- We encourage families and whānau to check their own and their child/childrens’ immunisation status through My Health Record:
My Health Record – Health New Zealand
- Anyone born between 1969 and 2004 may have only received one vaccine dose and might not be fully protected. It’s safe to get extra doses. A free vaccine can be booked online or via the Vaccination Helpline on 0800 28 29 26.