A new case of measles in Auckland has taken the confirmed number of cases this year to 16.

Photo: RNZ / Bradley Ambrose

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service said the latest patient, a woman from central Auckland, had been placed in isolation.

Health officials were following up with anyone who might have been in contact with her.

The new case was believed to be linked to the others rather than being a new case from overseas or of unknown origin.

People are reminded to check their immunisation history, to see if they need an MMR vaccine.

About one in 10 people who contract measles need hospital treatment. The virus can live in the air for hours after a person has been coughing and sneezing in the area.

Because of the risk of contagion, people who have measles are advised they should not visit their GP, emergency department or after-hours clinic.

Instead they should remain isolated, call their GP or free Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice and wait at home. They should not go to school, childhood centres, work, sports events, social activities, shopping malls or use public transport.