Whānau Āwhina Plunket welcomes Pharmac’s decision to fund influenza vaccines for children aged six months to under five years, aiming to reduce serious illnesses and ease healthcare pressure amid ongoing flu circulation.
Whānau Āwhina Plunket has welcomed Pharmac’s decision to make funded influenza vaccination available immediately for children aged six months to just under five years, saying the move should help more families protect young children from serious illness.
The organisation said the change comes after a difficult flu season for young children and should remove a cost barrier at a time when influenza is still circulating in communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Plunket said the youngest children face the greatest risk, with recent child health data showing hospitalisation rates are highest in infants and preschool-age children.
Plunket has also been working with Health New Zealand to widen access to immunisation. It said more than 11,000 vaccinations have now been delivered to pēpi, tamariki and whānau across the country, through 24 services that include clinic appointments, drop-in sessions, weekend clinics and in-home visits. About 70% of those vaccinated were not enrolled with a GP, underlining the programme’s reach into communities that may struggle to access routine care.
The group said eligible families should speak to their usual health provider, a pharmacist or a vaccinator, and noted that immunisation appointments may also be available through some Plunket services. Plunket said vaccination remains one of the best ways to reduce the risk of serious illness and ease pressure on emergency departments, urgent care clinics and hospitals.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
