Better For All

Get Vaccinated against Measles!

Wednesday, 05 November 2025

Protect yourself and your whānau — it’s easier than ever to get vaccinated against measles

At Local Doctors, we’ve made it simple to get protected. We’ve brought in extra vaccinating staff, stocked additional vaccines, and set up convenient pop-up clinics so you can get your MMR vaccination close to home.

Pop-up clinic schedule

  • Sunday 9 Nov, 2–8pm — Local Doctors Browns Road

  • Tuesday 11 Nov, 5–8pm — Local Doctors Browns Road

  • Wednesday 12 Nov, 5–8pm — Local Doctors Dawson Road

  • Thursday 13 Nov, 5–8pm — Local Doctors Ōtara

You can also book an appointment at your regular Local Doctors clinic — whichever is easiest.

Why now?

Measles cases have now been confirmed in every region of Aotearoa New Zealand, and the risk of a large outbreak is high.

Measles is extremely contagious — far more infectious than COVID-19 or the flu. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or even simply being in the same room as someone who is infected. Someone with measles can spread it before they even know they are sick.

Why measles is serious

Measles is not a mild illness.
Around one in three people who get it will need hospital care. Serious complications can include:

  • Lung infections (pneumonia)

  • Brain swelling (encephalitis)

  • Long-term neurological damage

  • In rare cases, death

Symptoms usually include:

  • High fever

  • Cough

  • Runny nose

  • Red, watery eyes

  • Followed by a rash

Some people, especially babies and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk of severe illness.

How to know if you’re protected

You are considered protected if you have had two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at least four weeks apart.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve had two doses, it’s safe to be vaccinated again.
This is especially important if you:

  • Were vaccinated overseas

  • Moved to New Zealand

  • Had childhood vaccines before electronic records

  • Do not have proof of immunisation

You can check your records through My Health Record | Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora.
If you have documentation, please email it to us at [CLINIC EMAIL].

If you do not have proof of immunity and are exposed to measles, you may be required to stay home (quarantine) for at least two weeks — even if you feel well.

About the MMR vaccine

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
It is:

  • Free

  • Very safe

  • Highly effective

Most side effects are mild, such as a sore arm or low fever, and show that your body is building protection.

If you are pregnant, severely immunocompromised, or have questions about your eligibility, please speak to your healthcare provider.

What this message means for you

You’re receiving this because we don’t have a record showing that you’ve had two MMR doses.
We encourage you to get your free MMR vaccination to help protect yourself, your whānau, and the wider community.

Even if you believe you’ve already had two doses, it is still safe to be vaccinated again if you cannot find proof.

What to do next

  1. Book or walk in

    • Visit one of our pop-up clinics listed above, or book at your nearest Local Doctors clinic.

  2. Check your vaccination records

    • Look up your information via My Health Record or contact your doctor.

  3. Share with whānau and friends

    • The more people protected, the lower the chance of a large outbreak.

  4. Know the symptoms

    • If you develop symptoms — especially after possible exposure — stay home and call Healthline on 0800 611 116 or contact your clinic before visiting.