Immunisation status of children in the eastern Bay of Plenty

Abstract

Aim: To assess the status of immunisation of children in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

Method: Survey of general practitioner records and case notes of all resident children born over a period of two years and aged from five to 29 months. Immunisation was considered up to date if received within a reasonable period of the expected time.

Results: One thousand five hundred and ninety-three children were studied (97% of those known to be resident). The six week immunisations were received by 91%, 88% received the three month, and 81% the five month vaccines. Delivery of second year immunisation was much less successful, only 72% receiving measles or MMR vaccine despite publicity about a current measles epidemic and 61% the eighteen month vaccines.

Conclusion: Forty-three percent children of two years of age had not received the full recommended immunisation schedule. Some of the contributing factors were identified and measures that could improve immunisation uptake are discussed.