Immunization Decline

New Ministry of Health, “Statistics show a drop in the vaccination rates of infants over the last quarter, when compared to the previous year. This decline in immunisation coverage could mean thousands of New Zealand infants are unprotected from serious, but vaccine-preventable illnesses.”

Auckland University Professor and director of the Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC) Dr Nikki Turner says, “ The figures are particularly concerning given the decline in rates of immunisation is greatest among the most vulnerable groups in our community.”

Brett Marett, medical director for GSK NZ, one of the country’s largest providers of vaccines says, “While it is a challenging time for the healthcare sector, it is important to maintain vaccination timeframes according to the National Schedule.”

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