Measles outbreak in Christchurch continues

A significant outbreak of measles in Christchurch is continuing to spread.   The incident started at the beginning of July when 4 students at a local high school were diagnosed with the disease.  Currently, there are 21 confirmed cases of measles in Christchurch, and the possibility of its spread to other schools and a childcare centre is under investigation.  Healthcare officials are also investigating the possibility that the outbreak may have been caused by a failed vaccine.

Measles, a highly infectious viral infection, is characterised by a runny nose, coughing, red eyes, fever and a spreading rash.  It can also become far more severe, causing lung infections, pneumonia and even death.

News coverage:

The Press in Stuff National: Failure of vaccine suspected

NZPA in The NZ Herald: Measles outbreak on rise in Christchurch

The Press: Spread of virus to preschool suspected