We have been very busy behind the scenes formulating a sensible response to the single measles case in Sumner.

After discussion with the Medical Officer For Health, we feel that it is NOT necessary to make any changes at present, though this will change if there are further cases.

Although we are NOT recommending that parents immunise children early, the following options are available to you if you would like to discuss them:

• Children under 6 months are not usually at risk as they are protected by maternal antibodies passed in the womb.
• Children 6 months to 1 year may have MMR but will ALSO need BOTH their 15 month and 4 year immunisations.
• Children aged over 1 year who have not had 15 month immunisations may have the MMR early and will only need their 4 year immunisation at the usual time.
• Chilrend may have a booster of MMR at least 5 months after their first dose.

As stated before, at present we STRONGLY recommend that you keep to the current immunisation schedule and do not make changes.

If this advice changes, we will post information here and on the Sumner Health Centre Facebook page - like us to get sensible local healthcare updates.