Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with high fever, cough, red eyes and then a rash. It can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation and death. Call before entering a healthcare facility so that others are not exposed.

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Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with high fever, cough, red eyes and then a rash. It can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation and death. Call before entering a healthcare facility so that others are not exposed.

  • High fever and feeling very ill.
  • Dry cough, runny nose and sneezing.
  • Call before every visit to a GP, HAP or hospital and say that measles is possible.
  • Stay at home and avoid visitors, public transport, school, work and shared waiting areas for as long as the public health service advises.
  • Call the same day for fever, cough, red eyes and a rash after contact or travel; do not arrive unannounced in a waiting room.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Further reading

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RubellaRubella is a contagious viral infection that is often mild, but can seriously harm a baby during pregnancy. A rash alone is not reliable for diagnosis: if you suspect rubella, call before entering a practice, and call the same day if you are pregnant or have been exposed.
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Zika feverZika fever is a usually mild viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and also through sex. The greatest risks are serious harm to an unborn baby and rare nerve complications. Pregnancy after possible exposure, increasing muscle weakness or signs of severe dengue require prompt assessment.
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Scarlet feverScarlet fever is a contagious infection caused by group A streptococci, with fever, a sore throat and a fine, rough-feeling rash. A doctor assesses whether tests and antibiotics are needed. Breathlessness, drooling, drowsiness or a rash that does not fade under pressure are warning signs.