Health officials in New Zealand have confirmed another case of measles in Auckland, bringing the total number of infections to 17 nationwide. The latest case, announced by Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, is connected to an earlier overseas-acquired infection.
Authorities say there are now more than 2,000 close contacts being monitored. The Ministry of Health has warned that community transmission is likely, with several cases showing no clear travel link. Public health modelling suggests that if the spread is not contained, New Zealand could see up to 100 to 150 new cases each week in the coming months.
Schools have been asked to prepare updated health plans as students in both Auckland and Wellington were exposed to confirmed cases. In Auckland, one infected person visited Westfield St Lukes while infectious. Health officials continue to publish a list of “locations of interest” for public awareness.
Health Minister David Seymour has confirmed he will undergo a measles test himself, saying the government will review and update its outbreak response this week.
Concern for Samoa and the Pacific
For Samoa and the wider Pacific, the outbreak serves as a warning. Many families travel regularly between Auckland and Apia, and measles remains one of the region’s most contagious and dangerous diseases.
The 2019 measles epidemic in Samoa claimed 83 lives, most of them children under five. The current situation in New Zealand underlines how quickly the virus can re-emerge when vaccination rates drop.
Pacific health leaders have urged families to check their immunisation records and make sure every child has received two doses of the MMR vaccine.
What to do
Health New Zealand says anyone born after 1 January 1969 who is unsure of their vaccination status should get immunised. The MMR vaccine is free for everyone aged one and over.
Those with symptoms – fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash – are asked to stay home and call Healthline or their doctor before visiting any clinic.
For travellers between Samoa and New Zealand, health authorities say now is the time to make sure vaccination cards are up to date. A single unprotected person can trigger widespread infection on both sides of the Pacific.
