Vaccination rates are not high enough yet in the Bay of Plenty to fully protect babies and children from preventable diseases such as measles and whooping cough, according to Dr Pat Tuohy, national immunisation champion, who has been visiting the Bay of Plenty.
"But they are improving and the goalof protecting the Bay's children from vaccine preventable diseases will be achieved," Dr Tuohy said.
At a workshop with BOP immunisers held in Te Puke last night, Dr Tuohy discussed a number of steps to encourage parents to vaccinate their children "on time every time".
Parents are eager to get reliable information on the benefits and any adverse effects from vaccination. GPs and practice nurses build trusting relationships with parents, so that they feel confident that immunisation is the best option for their children. In addition, general practices can provide a welcoming environment for families, so the immunisation event can be a positive experience.
"Parents want what is best for their children. That includes immunisation with the full range of free vaccines that are available for babies and infants." Dr Tuohy said.
"Our role as health professionals is to give parents the confidence that immunisation is a safe choice, which will be effective in preventing a range of serious childhood diseases."
There have been recent outbreaks of both measles and whooping cough in New Zealand.
"The new rotavirus oral vaccine available since 1 July will significantly reduce illness in young babies," said Dr Tuohy.
