Latest measles guidance for healthcare professionals

Measles cases are rising across the motu. Please see IMAC's latest measles vaccination guidance below, as at 30 October 2025.

This advice will be updated as the measles situation in Aotearoa New Zealand evolves.

Please ensure you are subscribed to IMAC's newsletter to be kept up-to-date with the latest immunisation news and information. Click here to subscribe, or to send the link to a vaccinating colleague.

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MMR0 guidance

MMR is still scheduled from 12 months. An early dose of MMR should only be considered for infants at high risk due to international travel, or when requested by public health for measles contact management.

If there are any updates to this guidance, we will let you know. Please refer to IMAC's MMR dose zero pre-vaccination screening tool for more information.

Check contraindications

It is important to remember there are contraindications to live vaccines, including Priorix (MMR).

Please discuss patients’ medical conditions and any medications they are taking before vaccination.

Those born before 1969

These people are very unlikely to need a vaccine, but it can be considered if necessary, e.g. travelling to high-risk countries.

‍See age group guidance below.

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Consider MMR vaccination needs by age groups

‍70 years or older: People aged in their 70s and older do not need an MMR vaccine

Mid-50s and 60s: People aged in their mid-50s and in their 60sare very unlikely to need a vaccine, but it can be considered if necessary, e.g. travelling to high-risk countries

Adults up to mid-50s: People aged younger than mid-50s need MMR if they do not have a clear record of two doses of measles-containing vaccine or confirmed measles. Two doses, at least 4 weeks apart

Childhood: Two scheduled MMR doses should be given at 12 months and 15 months of age. Children who have not received two documented doses can be offered catch-up doses, given at least 4 weeks apart. If a child receives an MMR0 dose before 12 months of age, they still require the two scheduled doses at 12 months and 15 months

Overseas vaccine records: It is important to check vaccine history for children vaccinated overseas to ensure any missing MMR vaccines are offered as part of a priority infant and child catch-up vaccination programme.

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‍Primary and community care immunisation priorities - Health NZ (23 October)

Please see Health New Zealand's prioritisation of immunisation activities, which provides clarity on the current settings. Click here to read.

Immunisation records for patients

If patients are unsure of their immunity to measles, they should be directed to check their immunisation records through My Health Record or freecall the Vaccination Helpline on 0800 28 29 26.

They can also contact their GP, healthcare or Hauora provider – however, this is recommended as a last step as GP receptions are becoming overwhelmed with queries.