58035 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

58035 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What is the wait time for mpox vaccination, according to district?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that wait times for mpox vaccinations vary largely due to the need for a prescription under Section 29 of the Medicines Act. I am advised that as of 24 September, Wellington had 192 people waiting for a vaccination: 55 need two doses (at least four weeks apart), and 137 need a final dose. Additional clinics were held on 18,19 and 21 September, and Health New Zealand is providing Communicable Disease Nurses to support the sexual health clinic to address this backlog. Waikato and Bay of Plenty had a two-month wait time; however Public Health Nurse support has been provided to ensure all 88 people wanting a vaccination can be seen by mid-October (excluding those who are awaiting their mandatory four-week dose spacing). All remaining regions have no wait times for mpox vaccination.