The measles chapter of the Communicable Disease Control Manual has been updated, including clarifications to testing guidance, case definitions, and new advice on immunity for people born or living overseas before 1969. A summary of key changes and the updated chapter are available on our website.

An updated guide on MMR vaccine eligibility for primary and community care providers is now available on the Te Whatu Ora website. The update covers funded access for people not eligible for publicly funded healthcare (including Registered Seasonal Employees), use of private-market MMR vaccine, prioritisation guidance, and adult catch-up recommendations. 

A reminder practices should not send patients with suspected measles to community collection labs for testing. If a patient with possible measles presents to your practice, please complete the testing on-site in accordance with current guidelines, and notify the Ministry of Health of any suspected cases.

From Term 3 2026, the School-Based Immunisation Programme (SBIP) will focus on delivering HPV dose 1 in schools, and HPV dose 2 will no longer be offered through schools. Whānau wishing to complete the two-dose course can access HPV dose 2 free of charge through general practice, pharmacies, and other community providers from August 2026. General practices are also encouraged to offer catch-up HPV vaccination to all young people aged 14 to 26 who have not yet received any doses.