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There is a long way to go,
before we can convince Maori nationwide to get immunised.
Those are the sentiments of Dr David Jansen,
after the release of the latest figures on immunisation.
A trend that is hurting Maori.
This is a huge issue in regards to our health,
I am not implying that this needs to be included into Whanau Ora,
I am simply saying
that it is the health providers that make the difference.
The latest figures have been released
about the amount of two year olds that are immunised in NZ.
According to the statistics,
less then 70% of Maori children are immunised
but compare that with non-Maori and the figure almost reaches 90%.
Dr David Jansen feels that health providers have the key.
It is a big job to ensure that when a whanau walks in the door,
they are made comfortable.
In addition to that,
Maori need to be made aware of the dangers of avoiding immunisation.
It helps avoid things like the measles, the mumps, rubella.
So I encourage whanau to go in and get the children immunised.
But David feels that
catching non-Maori in the statistics shouldn't be the ultimate goal.
I think the statistics are looking a bit more optimistic
but we shouldn't aim to catch non-Maori
just for the sake of trying to catch them, it shouldn't end there.
A plea that one hopes doesn't fall of deaf ears.
Heta Gardiner, Te Karere.