1 Jan 2014

More measles cases confirmed

8:51 pm on 1 January 2014

Another nine cases of measles have been confirmed in New Zealand and linked to a dance competition in Australia in December.

The Ministry of Health says those who have been identified as having the illness are in Taupo and Turangi, and either went to the hip-hop competition in Sydney or know someone who did.

One confirmed case in Auckland, announced on Tuesday, was the first reported case for 18 months.

Acting Deputy Director of Public Health Harriette Carr said on Wednesday that no-one has been hospitalised, but those affected are being kept at home and in isolation.

Dr Carr said public health staff are checking people in Huntly and Hamilton, who are also known to have attended the competition.

Symptoms of the illness include a fever, sore and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the mouth.

Dr Carr said measles immunisations are available.