Measles epidemic unlikely in Taupo

Taupo Times, Volume 23, Issue 62, 6 August 1974, Page 1

Measles epidemic unlikely in Taupo

An intensive programme of immunisation against rubella [German measles], has achieved a high level of vaccination in the Rotorua health district and it is unlikely that an epidemic could occur in this area. The medical officer of health for Rotorua, Dr R. J. Flight, said yesterday that an intensive and continuing education campaign was launched by the department in this area last year to increase the rate of immunisation. Taupo is included in the Rotorua health district. A medical officer of health for Lower Hutt recently said that only 15 per cent of children in his * district were immunised against rubella at the age of five years.

He warned that the possibility of an epidemic existed because of this low number. A check made in the Rotorua health district in April, 1973, showed that just under 50 per cent of five-year-olds were immunised against rubella. Dr Flight said he was pleased with the improved rate of 70 per cent but there was still room for improvement. "I should like to see us getting at least 90 per cent of our five-year-olds vaccinated," he said. "This wouid ensure that we do not get an epidemic of rubella in the area." The prevention of clinical rubella in pregnant women is important, specially in the early months of pregnancy to avoid damage to the unborn child.'

The most common defect resulting from rubella is deafiiess, but other complications can occur such as "hole in the heart babies," congenital cataracts and mental retardation. Dr Flight said the Health Department encouraged parents to have all children vaccinated against rubella before starting school and this could conveniently be done in conjunction with the diphtheria and tetanus booster dose at five years. All new school entrants are checked and notices urging vaccination are sent to the parents of children who have not been immunised. Vaccination is obtainable through all general practitioners and is free for all children up to the age of 16.