Plunket nurses field vax queries

Wha¯ nau concerned over child immunisations

Wha¯nau A¯ whina Plunket nurses in the Bay of Plenty are fielding a lot of questions about immunisation, with the flu vaccination now funded for 3 to 11-yearolds.

Chief nurse Dr Zoe¨ Tipa says it is understandable wha¯nau have concerns and worries about what’s best for their tamariki.

“Our nurses, kaia¯whina, health workers and Plunketline team are always happy to answer questions about vaccinations, and they always have the most up-to-date information to share,” she says.

“We love questions. We want to make sure wha¯nau can make a confident and informed decision.”

Dr Tipa says vaccination is the best protection against the flu, as well as many other preventable diseases such as measles and whooping cough.

“It’s as important as ever that tamariki also have their routine childhood immunisations on time.

“With the borders opening up, we’re at increased risk from preventable diseases like measles, which can be deadly for all of us, but especially our young ones.”

Dr Tipa says vaccinating tamariki is the best way to keep them and all the wha¯nau safe from serious and preventable diseases.

“It’s completely understandable that people have fallen behind with their tamariki’s vaccination schedule given how busy and challenging life can be. The good thing is, it’s never too late to catch up. And if you have any questions whatsoever, you can talk to your nurse, kaia¯ whina or health worker, or call our Plunketline team any time on 0800 933 922 — we’re always here to help.”

For more information on vaccinations, visit www.plunket.org.nz or www.immune.org.nz.