With the recent cases of measles around NZ, we’re sharing information for our patients on immunity to measles and proof of immunity.
You care considered immune to measles if:
- You were born before 1969
- You have had two doses of measles / MMR (Measles Mumps Rubella) vaccine, above age 1
In NZ people who were born after 1982 who received the routine schedule of childhood vaccinations are fully vaccinated, and many others may be immune through catch-up vaccination programs.
Proof of immunity: If you wish to have proof of immunity there are several options:
- Find your Well Child / Plunket book. Look for two doses of vaccinations called “MMR” or “Measles”.
- We can email you your electronic vaccination record. These have been recorded electronically since about 2005-2010, so don’t show proof of immunity for many patients. Email us to request this at Reception@selwynvillagehealthcare.co.nz
- You can be vaccinated again – see below. Blood tests for immunity are not generally available.
If you are exposed to measles but don’t have proof of immunity, you may get sick and/or be required by public health to quarantine.
Measles vaccination (MMR)
Measles is extremely infectious, and cause serious / life threatening illness (especially for young children and those with other health conditions).
Two doses of Measles vaccines are very effective for preventing measles infection. The measles vaccine currently available is called MMR – in addition to Measles it also protects against two other infections (Mumps and Rubella).
MMR vaccine is well proven to be safe, although it can’t be given to those who are pregnant, or some immunosuppressed people (eg. undergoing chemotherapy)
MMR vaccine is free (fully funded) for anyone eligible for NZ healthcare, AND for all children/youth aged 1-17 living in NZ.
If you haven’t had two doses of measles vaccine we can provide catch-up vaccination. You can book these directly with our nurses.
Selwyn Village Healthcare 