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Child Immunisation

Immunisation helps prevent many serious childhood infections.

When a child is immunised, their body's immune system is stimulated to protect against the diseases represented in the vaccine.

It is important to understand that the risk from any of these diseases far outweighs any risk associated with vaccination.

To develop good immune protection against a range of serious diseases there is a comprehensive schedule of immunisations (including boosters) that must be given over time.

The Ministry of Health recommends that all children are immunised against:

Go to recommended child immunisations for more information.

Health risks

Pertussis (whooping cough)

Whooping cough is a respiratory infection causing severe coughing spells that may end in a 'whooping' sound. Babies under the age of one are most at risk of serious illness.

Epidemics of whooping cough tend to occur every three to four years in New Zealand and overseas. The last epidemic happened during 2004 and 2005. There has been a rise in the number of cases in New Zealand this year (2009), including the Bay of Plenty and Lakes Districts.

Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service strongly encourages parents to immunise their children against whooping cough at six weeks, three and five months.

How is it passed on?

Whooping cough is very contagious and is spread by droplets when people cough and sneeze.

What can you do?

  • Immunise your baby on time at six weeks, three and five months
  • Keep your baby away from anyone with a cough
  • Remember cough etiquette (cover your cough, use tissues and wash your hands).

For more information

Health professionals are required to report all suspected cases of whooping cough by faxing patient information to 0800 66 89 34.