Immunisation

Immunisation protects tamariki against a range of serious diseases. Protect tamariki for life - immunise. Start immunising pēpi the day they turn 6 weeks old. Continue with all immunisations for full protection.

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Protect your whānau. Immunise on time. Vaccine preventable diseases are serious and sometimes deadly. Watch some short videos.

A series of 10 short videos answering your questions about immunisation. Hastings mum and doctor, Dr Kiriana Bird, answers some common questions parents and whānau have about immunisation. If you're concerned about immunisation, knowing the facts can help you feel more confident about immunising your child.

Immunisation on time is the most effective way to protect pregnant mums, babies and children from preventable disease.

Find out about having the COVID-19 vaccine when pregnant or breastfeeding. Check information about COVID-19 immunisation in children and young people.

From 1 April 2023, flu immunisation is free for tamariki from 6 months to 12 years. It is especially important and free for tamariki with certain long-term health conditions, and for women in pregnancy. 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation in girls and boys helps prevent cervical and other cancers caused by HPV. HPV immunisation is free for everyone from 9 years of age until before their 27th birthday. 

Measles can be very dangerous and spreads faster than almost any other disease. Make sure your kids are immunised against measles. Talk to your family doctor or practice nurse.  

From 1 March 2023, babies and children can get free protection from meningococcal B disease with the MenB (Bexsero) vaccine. 

Mumps is very easy to catch. Immunisation given on time is the only way to prevent mumps.

Immunisation protects against rotavirus - a common tummy bug that children catch easily. Rotavirus causes vomiting and diarrhoea (runny, watery poo/tūtae).

Tetanus is a life-threatening condition caused by bacteria in the soil. Tetanus usually develops after a 'dirty' wound but can develop after small or even unnoticed injuries. Only immunisation can prevent tetanus.

The best way to protect pēpi against whooping cough is to immunise them on time. Whooping cough immunisation during pregnancy is safe, free and protects pēpi in their first weeks of life.

To give others easy access to KidsHealth's content on immunisations for tamariki, you can share a QR code poster. Anyone can scan one of the QR codes with their phone and go straight to the relevant KidsHealth page.