Members of the public are being encouraged by Health NZ to monitor themselves for measles symptoms and get vaccinated, after a confirmed case - following overseas travel - in Queenstown last Monday (29 Sep).

Measles is described as a serious and highly contagious disease with symptoms including a fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and a rash.

Anyone at the following locations is also considered a casual contact and should monitor their symptoms for 21 days after exposure.

Exposure locations - following the Queenstown case - include:

• Woolworths Five Mile Queenstown, Thursday 25 September (3.30-4.45pm)
• The Bakery Queenstown, Thursday 25 September (2.45-3.50pm)
• SPCA Op Shop Queenstown, Thursday 25th September (12.30-1.45pm)
• Salvation Army Thrift Store Queenstown, Thursday 25th September (12.15-1.45pm)
• BP Cromwell, Sunday 21st September (5.30-6.45pm)
• Cromwell Heritage Precinct, Sunday 21st September, (4.15-6.15pm)
• Yara Kebab Cromwell, Sunday 21 September, (3-5pm)

Health NZ advise that the country is at a very high risk of a measles outbreak because of low immunisation rates.

The best protection against measles is the free measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, they said.

The following locations in Central Otago offer vaccinations:

• A pop-up clinic offering MMR vaccinations will be available at Rees House, Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton on: Monday 6 October from 11am - 4pm Tuesday 7 October from 9am - 4pm. There is no need to book just drop in, or if you would like to book an appointment call 03 450 9156.
• Central Otago Pharmacies may also offer vaccinations. CLICK HERE to find one near you.
• CLICK HERE to book your vaccination online.