Health New Zealand is urging secondary school students and their whānau to check they are protected against measles before NCEA exams and assessments begin.
The reminder comes as measles outbreaks overseas increase the risk of the virus being brought into New Zealand through international travel. Especially, following the school holidays.
National Clinical Director Dr Susan Jack says a measles case in a school can have significant impacts, not only for the person who becomes unwell, but for students, whānau and school communities at a critical time of year.
"Measles is only a plane ride away, and because it remains common in many parts of the world, there is always a risk that it could be brought into New Zealand through international travel," says Dr Susan Jack.
"We know NCEA is an important milestone for students and their families. The last thing anyone wants is for students to be dealing with a preventable illness, or the disruption that can follow a measles exposure, during exam season."
New Zealand's 2025 measles outbreak demonstrated how quickly imported cases can affect schools, workplaces and communities. Health NZ managed 48 confirmed cases and more than 7,500 contacts across the country, with most cases occurring during October and November.
If a measles case is identified in a school, public health teams may need to identify contacts, assess immunity and take action to prevent further spread of the virus. Students and staff who are not immune and have been exposed to measles may be required to stay away from school for a period of time.
"For students preparing for exams and assessments, that can mean interrupted learning, missed classes and additional stress at an already busy time," says Dr Jack.
"Checking your immunisation status now is one of the simplest things you can do to help protect your health, your education and your school community."