The national influenza immunisation strategy group: a New Zealand model for influenza vaccination promotion

Abstract

In 1997, New Zealand introduced free influenza vaccination for all New Zealanders aged 65 years and older and set a target of 75% coverage for the year 2000. In 1999, free vaccination was extended to include those under 65 years with certain chronic medical conditions. In late 1999, with coverage of the 65 and over group at 55%, it was apparent that the national target was not going to be achieved. A new promotion group, the National Influenza Immunisation Strategy Group (NIISG) was established in 2000 with the purpose of improving coverage through public and healthcare provider education. The Group is comprised of members from the Ministry of Health, District Health Boards, the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, the College of Practice Nurses, the Immunisation Advisory Centre, communications, and the pharmaceutical company that supplies the free vaccine. Since the establishment of the NIISG, coverage has increased to an estimated 62% in 2002 and total vaccine sales reached 174 per 1000 population. Significant activities of the NIISG have been in the area of health education resources, such as pamphlets and the Influenza Kit, radio and television advertising, healthcare professional education sessions, and developing close links with the National Pandemic Planning Committee. Evaluation of various initiatives is in place and research has been conducted into attitudes to immunisation by primary health providers and those aged 65 years and older. Disease, virus and vaccine surveillance data are being improved. A national approach to promotion, coupled with local initiatives, has been a key to this success, as has the collaborative relationship between the parties represented on the NIISG. The NIISG offers a model for other countries to improve influenza vaccination rates and to raise awareness of influenza during inter-pandemic periods.