Measles is sometimes thought of as an illness that only affects children. In reality, anyone who is not immune can catch measles, and it can cause serious illness in both children and adults.
New Zealand has experienced renewed measles activity since late 2025, with cases reported across several regions, including Otago and Southland. This matters because measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases and can spread rapidly among unprotected people.
Why is measles serious?
Measles usually begins with symptoms such as:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red or watery eyes
- a blotchy rash that develops a few days later.
For some people, measles can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, severe diarrhoea and inflammation of the brain.
New Zealand’s 2019 outbreak resulted in more than 2,200 cases and around 775 hospitalisations – a reminder that measles is far more than an inconvenient childhood rash.
Young children, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems can be particularly vulnerable, but healthy adults can also become seriously unwell.
Why are we seeing measles again?
Measles still circulates in many countries overseas. Cases can be brought into New Zealand through international travel and then spread locally.
Because the virus is so infectious, very high vaccination coverage is needed to prevent outbreaks. New Zealand continues to have immunity gaps, leaving some people in the community vulnerable.
The best protection is vaccination
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
Children routinely receive MMR vaccinations as part of the New Zealand Immunisation Schedule. Adults should also check that they are protected.
If you were born after 1969 and are not sure whether you have received two doses of MMR, talk to your healthcare provider. The Ministry of Health advises that it is safe to receive another dose if you cannot confirm that you have already had two.
Two doses of MMR provide the best protection against measles.
Think you may have measles?
Please do not arrive at Gore Medical Centre without calling first on 03 208 9222.
Because measles spreads so easily, coming into a waiting room could expose babies, pregnant people, immunocompromised patients and others who are not immune.
If you have symptoms that could be measles, or think you may have been exposed, stay home and phone Gore Medical Centre for advice first.
You can also contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.
Not sure if you are protected?
Now is a good time to check your vaccination history – particularly if you were born after 1969, are travelling overseas, or simply cannot remember whether you received two MMR vaccinations.
Talk to the team at Gore Medical Centre to find out whether you and your whānau are protected.
Sources: Ministry of Health | Manatū Hauora and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.