There is currently an outbreak of diphtheria in Australia. Diphtheria is a life threatening infection, but is mostly prevented by vaccination. The current Australian outbreak is thought to have a low chance of spreading to New Zealand.
People who have had four doses of diphtheria vaccine are considered immune long-term.
The NZ vaccination schedule has diphtheria vaccines funded and provided at:
- Five times through childhood (6 weeks – 11 years)
- As part of pertussis vaccination in pregnancy
- At age 65
- As part of tetanus vaccination for dirty wounds
- For those who haven’t previously completed vaccination
If you’re up to date with the NZ vaccination you don’t need to do anything. If you aren’t fully immunised feel free to contact us to discuss catch-up vaccination.
Selwyn Village Healthcare 