The New Zealand Government was criticised for its response to the epidemic, particularly due to shortages in the supply of vaccines. Scientists also criticised the
Ministry of Health for not acting on previous recommendations to conduct national 'catch-up' campaigns with the
MMR vaccine prior to the outbreak. In 2017, the New Zealand
Health Ministry produced documents highlighting the urgent need to increase measles immunisation among young people, stating that a "systematic, programmatic approach" was needed to address an immunity gap. In 2018, Dr
Nikki Turner, Chair of the National Measles Verification Committee, met to discuss the immunisation gap. It was noted damage was historical and immunisation rates had improved but by 2019 the gap had not been fully addressed. Many young people were unaware of their vaccination status, indicating that poor record keeping contributed to ineffective delivery. David Haymen and Turner concluded that the best way to close the immunity gap was to undertake a formal catch-up programme. Research into the 2019 measles epidemic traced its history and showed it was young infants who were most at risk, followed by teenagers and adults under the age of 30. The research also suggested management strategies such as a national campaign targeting at-risk age groups; establishment of systems to ensure adequate supplies of vaccines; provision of support for their delivery at the practice level; and creative use of community facilities to improve accessibility. Although New Zealand has had a high demand for the MMR vaccine, resulting in a shortage, there has also been an increase in the number of people who have declined the vaccine since 2017. == Cases ==