Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
18 August 2011 09:40
Tourists have been warned of a measles outbreak in New Zealand
A new measles outbreak in New Zealand has come as a major worry for British backpackers planning to spend their holidays in the island country.
The contagion has already infected more than 120 people in the upper North Island and is spreading to more areas, according to authorities.
Tourists are better advised to grab a comprehensive medical travel insurance deal before heading off to the country.
Auckland, where the outbreak was reported first, has 109 confirmed cases so far, whereas 20 cases have been reported from Waikato. Taupo and Northland are also listed among the affected areas.
Of the 20 instances reported from Waikato, 19 had not been immunised and one had received only one of the recommended two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, according to Medical Officer of Health Dr Anita Bell.
Dr Bell said: "This is a testament to the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine in protecting people who are fully immunised.
"Immunisation is the only protection from this potentially serious disease. Immunisation protects not only the individual, but also blocks the spread of this disease within our communities.''
Those who have symptoms of measles including fever, cough, blocked nose and sore red eyes have been advised to immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116.
04 February 2020
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
[more...]
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.
Looking for a Valentine's getaway but want to avoid the clichés? Try one these alternative romantic destinations...
27 January 2020
With ancient architecture and marble marvels at every turn, there are plenty of reasons to get onside with our plans away from the rugby in Rome.
Squeeze some time in between the scrums for Dublin's best sights.
21 January 2020
With a certain tennis tournament underway in Melbourne, it's the perfect time to see what other fantastic attractions this city serves up.
As a new year begins we ask what it means to be a European Capital of Culture.
There's no better time to visit Rijeka, as the Croatian city celebrates European Capital of Culture status.
Plan your Irish itinerary around Galway's Capital of Culture highlights.
06 January 2020
Looking for some inspiration for your next holiday destination? Here's a list of our favourite destinations for 2020.
Get the most out of your 2020 getaway with our top holiday planning tips.
Discover a new passion this winter with one of these alternative winter sports.