Auckland measles case: Ferry, supermarket exposure alert

• A measles case in Auckland has been linked to Fullers360 ferries and a supermarket.
• The National Public Health Service is supporting the infected person and their household.
• Health officials urge people to check their immunisation status, as measles is highly contagious.

A new case of measles has been identified in Auckland - with the risk of public exposure on Fullers360 ferries and at a supermarket.

The individual had recently travelled to Asia, where it is believed they contracted the virus, but they were not infectious during their flight back home.

The National Public Health Service (NPHS) is providing support to the person with measles and their household, and those who are not immune to the disease are now in quarantine to prevent further spread.

What do we know about the case?

Fullers360 confirmed the case was a marine crew member.

“We are actively working with Health New Zealand and are following their guidance and protocols to ensure all necessary steps are being taken,” a spokesperson told the Herald.

“Staff who are considered to have been in possible contact with the known case in our crew are being contacted by Health New Zealand and will be guided by them on any further necessary steps.”

The infected person had visited several public locations in Auckland while they were infectious.

The locations and times.

What to do

Health officials are urging people to check their immunisation status.

“You are considered immune to measles if you have proof of two doses of the MMR vaccine,“ Health NZ said.

“People born before 1969 or have evidence of having measles previously are also considered immune.”

People can check their immunisation records by logging onto My Health Record via www.my.health.nz or by contacting their local healthcare provider.

Not immune?

Anyone who was exposed at these places and is not immune should ring Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice as they are considered close contacts.

If you are not immune, please stay at home until you have contacted Healthline.

Watch for measles symptoms

Anyone exposed at these times should watch for symptoms and if they develop should contact Healthline immediately on 0800 611 116 and stay home until they receive advice from public health services.

Measles symptoms to be aware of:

• the illness begins with high fever (over 38 C), cough, runny nose, and sore red eyes (conjunctivitis) 
• a rash, beginning on the face and gradually spreading down the body to the arms and legs. The rash lasts for up to one week.

“Measles is a serious and highly infectious illness, which can affect adults as well as children and babies,” said Health NZ NPHS protection clinical director Dr Susan Jack.

“The MMR vaccine is the only thing that prevents measles.”

The MMR vaccine is free in New Zealand for anyone 18 years or under, and for people who are eligible for free healthcare.