Measles Cases Rise to Eight Amid New Exposure Alerts
Feilding Retailers Identified as Potential Exposure Sites
Health officials have confirmed three new measles cases today, pushing the total outbreak count to eight. One of the new infections originated in Manawatū and is linked to previous cases in Wairarapa and international travel.
Potential Exposure in Feilding
A medical officer of health, Dr Craig Thornley, indicated that one of the recently identified cases might have been infectious at several Feilding locations last Friday afternoon. These sites include branches of New World, The Warehouse, and Bunnings Warehouse.
“Cautious Approach” to Exposure
Dr Thornley explained the decision to re-evaluate locations: “Although the case did everything right as advised by public health services, because they unexpectedly developed symptoms sooner than usual, we’ve taken a cautious approach by going back to check any locations they may have visited just before going into quarantine.”
This has led to the identification of six new potential exposure sites in Feilding visited on Friday, July 11.
Despite these new alerts, **Dr Thornley** stressed that the broader public risk is considered low due to the brief duration of the visits and their occurrence within a limited timeframe.
Public Health Guidance Issued
Individuals who were present at the identified Feilding locations during the specified times are considered casual contacts. Health authorities urge these individuals to monitor for measles symptoms, which include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, or a rash that spreads downwards.
Specific exposure timings and locations are available on the Health NZ website. Those who visited these sites are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms until Friday, August 1.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to the CDC, even brief contact can lead to infection in unvaccinated individuals (CDC).
Anyone experiencing symptoms or requiring further advice is encouraged to contact their general practitioner, usual healthcare provider, or call Healthline.
