The Waikato District Health Board's Population Health reported two more measles cases previous week. With the addition of these two cases, the total number of measles cases reached the mark of 21.

Out of 21 cases, eight comprised patients who had contracted through unimmunized contacts. According to Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Anita Bell, the two recent contractors of the disease were adults and the disease has been linked to the region of Te Awamutu.

Of the 21 cases, 20 are unimmunized and one contractor had received only one out of the two recommended doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. As per Dr. Bell, a secondary case is the one in which a person contracts measles from a known confirmed case of measles. All secondary cases are unimmunized.

She added, “Immunisation is the only protection from this potentially serious disease. Immunisation protects not only the individual, but also blocks the spread of this disease within our communities”.

The people who have not received protection against the disease and come in contact with an infected person are recommended to stay at home and avoid visiting public places, office and school for at least 14 days. If someone doubts of being suffering from the disease should consult the doctor. The disease is highly communicable as it spreads through tiny droplets in the air.