November 25 2025 (CKT)
The number of measles cases in New Zealand has risen, bringing the total to 21 cases since the first case on 18 October:
- The latest case in Auckland has been linked to a previous overseas-acquired case.
- Cases are currently known in Northland, Auckland, Taranaki, Manawatū, Wellington, and Nelson.
- There is a strong likelihood of undetected community transmission, and over 2000 close contacts, so more cases are expected to emerge as investigations continue.
- A close contact visitor from New Zealand recently arrived to the Cook Islands on Saturday 22nd November 2025. As a precaution, the close contact was quarantined. Serology testing was taken to determine the close contacts immune status to the measles virus. On Monday 24th November the results returned stating the close contact is immune to the measles virus and is no longer required to be in quarantine.
TMO will continue to monitor and keep the public informed. Parents or guardians are encouraged to check the measles vaccination status of their children, if in doubt to contact the Tupapa Primary Care on 20066 or Public Health on 29110.
Health New Zealand is managing a national response to the outbreak with intensive contact tracing and case management. Cases are being isolated and non-immune contacts supported to quarantine.
As well, in Australia, as of the 20 November, 157 measles cases have been reported across New South Wales (NSW), Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territories and Western Australia (WA), largely due to international travel. Individuals who visited exposure sites are advised to monitor for symptoms up to three weeks from the exposure date and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
For more information:
Email: tmo.helpdesk@cookislands.gov.ck
Website: https://www.health.gov.ck/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CookIslandsHealth
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