Health Ministry issues measles advisory as cases recorded in Australia, NZ

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has issued a public advisory warning of an increased risk of measles importation into Fiji, following a rise in cases reported in New Zealand and Australia.

New Zealand has recorded 21 cases as of 21 November, while Australia has reported 162 cases this year, with the most recent confirmed on 23 November. Health authorities in both countries are monitoring symptomatic patients and coordinating response measures.

Fiji at risk if vaccination rates drop

The Ministry said Fiji, like many countries, remains vulnerable to measles outbreaks if national vaccination coverage falls below 95 per cent.

Measles spreads quickly, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. The Ministry emphasised that strong immunisation coverage, rapid detection and fast response are essential to prevent a single imported case from escalating into a large outbreak.

Members of the public are urged to ensure they and their children are fully vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which remains the best protection.

About measles

Transmission:
Measles is an airborne viral disease that spreads easily through breathing, coughing and sneezing. Anyone unvaccinated or without prior infection is at risk.

Symptoms:
Fever and rash, accompanied by runny nose, sneezing, cough, red or watery eyes, and white spots inside the mouth. The rash begins after the initial symptoms and spreads across the body.

Treatment:
There is no specific treatment. Most people recover in 8–10 days with rest and adequate fluids.

Complications:
Severe cases can lead to pneumonia or brain swelling (encephalitis), requiring hospitalisation. Young children, babies under one, pregnant women, adults over 20, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk.

Prevention

A safe and effective vaccine is available and provided free to all children in Fiji. Since 2003, Fiji’s immunisation schedule has included two doses of the measles–rubella vaccine starting at 12 months of age. Parents are urged to check their child’s Fiji Child Health Record or school health card to ensure both doses have been received.

Fiji status

While measles is rare in Fiji due to high vaccination coverage, global outbreaks mean the country remains at risk of imported cases. The Ministry is asking the public to stay alert, verify vaccination status and seek medical advice if symptoms appear.