Hon Jo Goodhew
Associate Minister of Health
28 May 2014
Media Statement
Updated immunisation guide for the health sector
Associate Health Minister Jo Goodhew has today launched an updated immunisations reference guide for health
professionals.
“The Immunisation Handbook contains the latest best practice advice about diseases and the vaccines available to prevent
them,” says Mrs Goodhew.
“Having that information at hand helps health professionals safely and confidently deliver immunisation services to the
people they care for.”
The new Handbook includes information about the additional vaccines that will be funded from 1 July 2014, such as the
rotavirus vaccine.
The launch of the Immunisation Handbook also marks the 10th anniversary of the National Immunisation Register (NIR).
A quiet success story, the NIR is now a vital part of our health infrastructure allowing us to measure and track
immunisation coverage.
“Increasing immunisation has been a priority for this Government. Since 2007 we have seen immunisation rates rise
considerably, to 93 percent for two year olds and 91 percent of eight month olds,” says Mrs Goodhew.
“Both the Immunisation Handbook and the NIR are important tools in ensuring every child has access to the protection
they are entitled to.”
The Immunisation Handbook is now in its sixth edition, and for the first time will also be available as an e-book.
Copies of the Immunisation Handbook are being sent to health professionals, and will also be available for download from
the Ministry of Health website.