Measles- Top tips for Schools

In view of the recent news regarding an increase in Measles cases across NZ, we thought we'd outline a few helpful tips for schools.... 

 

What schools can do to be prepared: 

 

• Before an outbreak:

Ask staff, students, parents and caregivers to make sure that they have received 2 doses of MMR vaccine. Everyone born from 1 January 1969 is eligible for free MMR vaccinations. Immunisation records are kept by family doctors and in Well Child Tamariki Ora (or Plunket) Books. The Ministry of Health recommend that those who are unable to find their immunisation records check with their family doctor and get vaccinated – it’s free.

Record the names of students who are not immunised or who cannot find their records. If you have a PMS like MedTech or PupilWeb, you can create a search field in your stat box. This will enable public health officials to quickly identify those at risk should the need arise.

 

• During an outbreak:

Inform staff, students, parents and caregivers about the current measles cases in your area.
If someone develops symptoms of measles, separate them from others while they are waiting to be taken home and call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice as soon as possible.
Ensure that people with measles, and unimmunised people who have been exposed to measles, don’t attend school while they are infectious.

 

For more information: 

 

• Go to the Ministry of Health website to find out more about the measles outbreak (last updated June 2019)
• For protecting students with cancer from measles, check out this MoH guide. 
• If you are unsure about your immunity status, Call 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) or Healthline on 0800 611 116.
• Schools can contact their local DHB Public Health unit at any time if they are concerned or have any questions.