FROM THE EDITOR

I would have thought getting your child immunised against infectious diseases would be a nobrainer.

But the Northland DHB says a high proportion of Northland parents and caregivers actively refuse to get their babies vaccinated. A recent study has shown the rate of immunisation decline is more than twice the national average up here.

Prominent doctor Lance O’Sullivan has been outspoken about the topic, suggesting the Government follow Australia’s lead in cutting welfare payments to parents who don’t vaccinate their children.

A measles outbreak around the country earlier this year, including five cases in Northland, caused many schools to close. Symptoms include a fever and rash and complications like diarrhoea and pneumonia.

Measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations are free in NZ. What’s the reason for not immunising children?

Jenny