With measles still affecting our community, Health New Zealand is encouraging whānau to check they are protected and to get vaccinated at immunisation events across Te Tai Tokerau this week.

Supermarket carparks, marae and pop-up clinics are all being stood up as immunisation sites, supported by primary care, Whānau Āwhina Plunket, Hauora Māori providers, and a range of other health services.

Additionally, many pharmacies in Te Tai Tokerau continue to offer immunisations, including at weekends. Together, all of these services are making it easier for whānau to access immunisations. People in the community can also book an appointment as they normally would with their doctor, nurse, or hauora provider.

“Now is a great time to check if you and your whānau are protected against measles and to get immunised if you’re not,” says Dr Ngaire Rae, Kaitātaki Community and Whānau Wellbeing, National Public Health Service. “For whānau who may have missed out before, or who aren't sure of their immunisation status, these immunisation clinics make it easy. No booking or enrolment is needed – just walk in. Trusted health professionals will be there to kōrero, answer questions and support you to make the best decision for you and your whānau.” 

“Pharmacies are another great option for getting immunised too, for adults and your tamariki over three years old. Across our rohe, there are lots of pharmacies offering these services now – with some open seven days a week.”  

To find a Northland community immunisation clinic or pharmacy offering immunisations near you visit: info.health.nz/community-immunisation-clinics-northland (external link).

While most people who were born or lived in New Zealand before 1969 are considered immune to measles because of likely childhood infection at that time, anyone born after 1 January 1969 who does not have evidence of having two doses of the MMR vaccine after 12 months of age may not be fully protected. We encourage anyone in this latter group to check out one of the immunisation events taking place near them, and to pop down if they’re not immunised or not sure. “Whānau just need to make sure before they go that they’re symptom-free and haven’t been told to stay home by public health, to keep others safe,” adds Dr Rae.

Ngāti Hine Health Trust is also providing clinics throughout the week, as well as several mobile and event-based clinics, says Dr Mataroria Lyndon (Ngāti Hine), the Trust’s Clinical Advisor. “Immunisation is the most effective way to stop the spread of measles in our communities. With schools back and whānau gathering, it’s critical to ensure everyone is protected."

“Getting immunised protects not only your tamariki, but also your wider whānau. We know life can get busy, so we’re working alongside our community to make vaccinations easy and accessible - whether that’s at your local pharmacy, GP, hauora provider, or a pop-up clinic. Now is the time to check your records and get protected.” 

The MMR vaccine is free in New Zealand for anyone under 18 years old, and for people of all ages eligible for free healthcare. Extra MMR doses are safe for most people unless you are pregnant or immuno-compromised. Please discuss with your vaccinator or other trusted health service. If you’re unable to make it to these services, a free Vaccination Helpline is also available Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm on 0800 28 29 26. Vaccine appointments can also be booked online too. Visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine (external link) for a list of vaccination sites in your area. 

If your child isn’t immunised and they are exposed to measles, then they could be at risk of serious illness and may also need to stay home from school for 7 days or more if they’re a close contact. By getting them immunised you can help to keep them, your whānau and your community safe.