An outbreak of measles in the Hunter area of New South Wales

An outbreak of measles occurred in 1990 in the Port Stephens Shire of New South Wales. The incidence of confirmed cases of measles and associated histories of immunisation are detailed by age for the period 24 June 1990 to 31 December 1990. Data were obtained from health and education professionals and from interviews with parents. Among the 158 cases were 116 school pupils, 82 of whom attended two large primary schools which had attack rates of 9.4 per cent and 4.1 per cent. The cases also included 29 persons who had been appropriately immunised. Inadequate immunisation coverage was seen as the principal cause of the outbreak in the Port Stephens Shire. Observance of institutional protocol was regarded as a principal impediment to disease counter-measures in a neighbouring measles-affected area. Regulated immunisation of young children and cooperative interaction among service providers could ultimately lead to the control of this serious disease in New South Wales.