A 93 per cent drop in Northland's rheumatic fever cases in the past two years has been credited to various initiatives focused on sore throats.
Northland District Health Board figures for the past three financial years show the number of first time episodes of rheumatic fever have gone from 15 in 2014, to five cases in 2015 and only one case recorded this year - a 93 per cent decrease in the last two years.
Rheumatic fever can develop after a strep throat - a throat infection caused by a Group A Streptococcus bacteria - and can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease.
Northland's Medical Officer of Health Dr Clair Mills said it is likely the focus on early identification and management of strep throat, greater access for at-risk children to free treatment via schools and pharmacies, and an extensive national and regional communications strategy have contributed to the decline.
"As well as a reduction in the number of new cases of rheumatic fever, we see that families are more aware of the importance of treating sore throats and preventing rheumatic fever. However, there is no room for complacency because many of the risk factors that contribute to rheumatic fever, such as poor housing, still exist in Northland," she said.