19876 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

19876 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What progress, if any, has been made in the quarter October to December 2023 in actioning the recommendation ‘Expand places and times that antenatal immunisation can be given, for example, midwifery clinics, pharmacies, parent education sessions, local marae, outpatient and inpatient hospital settings’ under ‘Priority Area 3: Antenatal immunisations’ within the ‘Initial Priorities for the National Immunisation Programme in Aotearoa 2022’?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that earlier in 2023, community pharmacies that hold contracts with Health New Zealand were enabled to offer all antenatal immunisations (flu, COVID-19 and pertussis). A new website, www.immunise.health.nz, was launched, where health professionals and consumers can find information on antenatal immunisations. Work is continuing nationally, regionally, and locally to identify touchpoints where hapū māmā can have supportive conversations about immunisation. I am further advised that Health NZ is currently working to engage pharmacies who are not currently offering these services.