FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Childhood immunization rates in New Zealand have reached their highest level in three years, with 80.2 percent of children fully vaccinated by 24 months of age, according to Health New Zealand data.
Health Minister Simeon Brown noted a 4.5-percentage point increase since October, describing it as a key step toward the government’s goal of 95 percent coverage by 2030.
“This is the highest rate in three years,” Brown said, crediting efforts by general practitioners and targeted community outreach.
The announcement follows confirmation of a new measles case in Auckland, underscoring the importance of high vaccination rates, Brown said.
“Measles spreads quickly and can be dangerous, especially for young children. Every child deserves protection from serious illnesses, and that protection starts with immunization,” he said, emphasizing the role of vaccines in safeguarding entire communities.