Health authorities have issued an urgent alert after hundreds of passengers on a Cook Strait ferry crossing were potentially exposed to the measles virus earlier this month.
Health NZ confirmed two new measles cases on Thursday, bringing the total number of active cases nationwide to six. The cases are located in Northland (one), Auckland (two), Manawatū (two), and Nelson (one). These follow earlier infections reported last week in Northland and Queenstown-Lakes District.
Officials say four of the six current cases are linked to a Bluebridge Ferry sailing from Picton to Wellington on October 3, between 2 pm and 5:30 pm, when a contagious passenger was on board, RNZ reported.
Approximately 350 passengers from the affected sailing have now been contacted and provided with information and health advice.
Dr Sharon Sime, a public health medicine specialist with the National Public Health Service, warned that further infections may emerge in the coming days.
“Given the size of the ferry exposure event, it’s likely there are more cases in the community which are yet to be reported,” she said. “We are asking people to stay vigilant for measles symptoms, stay home if unwell, avoid travel over the long weekend, and seek medical advice if concerned,” as quoted by RNZ.
Authorities have also listed several new locations of interest in Nelson and one in the Manawatū region.
Health NZ says anyone who attended the 10.15 am service at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Ruahine Street, Palmerston North, on Sunday, October 19, is considered a casual contact and should monitor for symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, or a rash.
Health officials continue to urge New Zealanders to ensure they are up to date with their MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations as the country works to contain the spread.