The MMR vaccine, which is used to immunise children against measles, mumps and rubella. Photo: Tom Lee / Stuff
A new case of measles was confirmed in Northland this week, bringing the total number of cases in that region to 10, and one case in Queenstown.
Manukau ward councillor Alf Filipaina joined other Pacific leaders to remind New Zealanders of the importance of vaccination.
While no cases have been reported in Auckland, Filipaina said given it was a major gateway to the Pacific, and with the highest Pasifika population in the country, people should do all they can to get vaccinated.
"We do not want what happened in Samoa to happen again," Filipaina said.
In September 2019, a measles outbreak began in Samoa. Over a period of two and a half months, there were more than 5600 cases, and 83 people - mostly children under five years old - died.
It was reported then that an infected traveller, visiting Samoa from Auckland, most likely exported the disease to the Pacific island.
"Prevention has always been the key, and that's why vaccination is so important to our families.
"We do not want it in Auckland, so families please think about your children and everybody else, get them vaccinated and let's prevent it from coming here."
Reminder of tragic outbreak in Samoa
Fellow Manukau councillor Lotu Fuli said that after the measles outbreak, she had volunteered in Samoa.
"Samoa was devastated ... all those babies that died ... totally preventable," Fuli said.
She said the Covid-19 pandemic may still be fresh in people's minds, but people should not forget the measles outbreak in Samoa.
"Please protect yourselves, and at the same time protect our families and extended families in the Pacific and other countries we may be travelling to this summer."
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki ward councillor Josephine Bartley said there were a lot of places Aucklanders can go to to get vaccinated.
"A lot of our communities are living in overcrowded situations and you know if one person gets it, it can be widespread.
"It's really important for people to go to those health providers, they're constantly on social media promoting their services."
Health New Zealand is urging anyone travelling overseas to ensure they are fully immunised with two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
People returning from overseas should monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and rash.
The National Public Health Service is advising anyone who develops symptoms to stay home and contact a healthcare provider or call Healthline (0800 611 116) any time.
Vaccination clinics are running nationwide this week, many without the need for bookings. Immunisations remain free for most people in Aotearoa New Zealand, including all those under 18.
Free vaccines are available through GPs, Hauora Māori, Pacific health providers, and many pharmacies.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
