Think it’s measles? Phone before visiting your GP
Nelson Marlborough is one of only four district health boards that is "measles-free" during the current outbreak.
If you think you have measles, health professionals ask that you call your GP before bringing symptoms into a clinic waiting room.
Measles starts with a fever (temperature over 38.5 degrees C) and usually a cough or runny nose, and perhaps sore, red eyes before the rash appears on day 4-5.
People are infectious from five days before the onset of the rash to five days after the rash starts and should stay in isolation during this time.
There have been 14 suspect cases notified by GPs to the Nelson Marlborough Public Health Service in September, bringing the total number of notifications for the year to 38.
The last case of measles in Nelson Marlborough was in November 2018. The person was placed in home isolation before they become infectious to others, and as a result no-one else caught measles, which demonstrates the importance of isolation.
Source: Nelson Marlborough Health
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
77.1% Yes
-
21.3% No
-
1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.