As you may be aware, Aotearoa is currently experiencing a rise in confirmed measles (Mīhini) cases, with new notifications being reported across several regions. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread quickly, particularly among those who are unvaccinated or uncertain of their immunisation status.

 

Hauraki PHO is working closely with Public Health and Te Whatu Ora to support a coordinated response across our rohe. This includes ensuring our provider network has up-to-date information, funding guidance, and access to promotional collateral to help inform and protect whānau.

Across Aotearoa, measles continues to spread, with 25 cases reported this month and over 2,100 close contacts identified. Public Health is actively monitoring clusters and supporting vaccination drives. The government has confirmed that all MMR vaccines are now free for everyone aged 1+, including adults who weren’t previously eligible. Anyone unvaccinated or unsure of their MMR status - especially those born after 1969 - should get vaccinated immediately.

This funding has been established to support general practices and urgent care clinics to provide timely, equitable, and accessible care during the 2025–26 measles outbreak. It enables funded consultations, testing, and vaccination services for people identified by Public Health as measles cases, suspected cases, or close contacts, particularly those from priority and at-risk populations. The aim is to strengthen outbreak response and reduce barriers to care for those most at risk.

Funded services apply only to people identified and referred by Public Health as a measles case, suspected case, or close contact, who are also in one of the following groups:

Providers may claim for the following (GST exclusive):

 

Consultation + PCR swab                                   $90                              $135

MMR vaccination (PEP)                                      $90                              $135

Measles serology (if not referred to lab)              $30                              $45

PCR swab only (no consultation)                        $30                              $45

Vaccination record retrieval (if cost incurred).     $30                              $45

 

Claiming should be completed via the Primary Options Claim Form – using the Coding – Measles, and the appropriate Service Code.

As part of our ongoing efforts to support the protection of our whānau against measles, we kindly ask all practices to complete the MMR vaccine stock-take. You can complete the stocktake by clicking the “Complete MMR Vaccine Stocktake” button or by scanning the QR code below. Completing the stocktake helps ensure we have accurate visibility of current vaccine stocks, identify any potential gaps, and ensure timely replenishment where needed. Your participation plays a crucial role in safeguarding the hauora of our communities.

Join us on for a webinar on measles in New Zealand, and the latest MMR clinical guidance. IMAC medical advisors Dr Nikki Turner and Dr Mamaeroa David will provide a quick review of the current measles situation and the latest clinical guidance. Our experts will also answer your clinical MMR questions. The webinar will run for 30-40 minutes.

 

The MMR vaccine is available at no cost in New Zealand for anyone under 18, for adults who qualify for free healthcare, and for anyone for whom a Medical Officer of Health recommends vaccination.

 

 

Provider Toolkit (PDF): 

 

 

Username: midlanduser 

Password: midlandpassword

Ngāti Hine Health Trust are currently running a Measles campaign “Mahi Poto. Oranga Roa." They deliver, clear, simple but, effective messaging throughout. Read below to view and example of a social media post shared to their Facebook platform. There is a video also listed for your viewing.

 

 

 

Further Measles Information and Collateral (Click the links below for full access)

Measles is highly contagious, but timely vaccination and community awareness can stop its spread. If you have any questions or need support, please reach out to our Hauraki PHO Practice Support team — together, we can protect our whānau and communities.