COVID-19

The Immunisation Advisory Centre have created a short video in Samoan answering the most common questions about the COVID-19 vaccine: How does it work? They hope this information can help to inform you and your whānau ahead of getting the vaccine so together we can stand strong against COVID-19 in Aotearoa.

Find out why it's important for your child 12 and over to have the COVID vaccine. It's especially important for those with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart conditions (like rheumatic heart disease). Watch the videos. Make a booking now.

COVID-19 is a disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It can affect your lungs, airways and other organs. If your child or you have cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms, call your GP or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice. 

Wearing a mask or face covering can reduce the risk of people who have COVID-19 spreading the virus to others. A mask or face covering can help stop infectious droplets spreading when a person speaks, laughs, coughs or sneezes. See how to make your mask more efficient. Dr Joel Rindelaub from the University of Auckland shows the knot and tuck method.

Immunisation remains a priority for whānau during all COVID-19 alert levels. You can  protect your child against serious diseases like whooping cough and measles. 

Young people with diabetes aged 12 years and over can have their COVID-19 immunisation now. When parents or caregivers make their own appointments, they can also make appointments for their children aged 12 and over. That means children can have their immunisation at the same time as their parents or caregivers.

Looking for something to help your child make sense of  COVID-19? Check these resources - from videos for kids about the science behind coronavirus to online stories that can be important conversation starters in your household. The resources cover the range of Alert Levels in New Zealand. 

If you are pregnant or caring for a newborn baby, it's natural that you may be feeling increased anxiety and distress while New Zealand is working to stop the spread of COVID-19. Find out what you can do to help keep you and your baby safe. Find out what you can expect from your maternity care while you are pregnant and following the birth of your baby during Alert Level 2.

If you are pregnant or caring for a newborn baby, it's natural that you may be feeling increased anxiety and distress while New Zealand is working to stop the spread of COVID-19. Find out what you can do to help keep you and your baby safe. Find out what you can expect from your maternity care while you are pregnant and following the birth of your baby during Alert Level 4.

The NZ Clinical Network for Children and Young People with Diabetes advises that it is safe for children and young people with diabetes to be at school under Alert Levels 1 or 2.

It can be a frightening and confusing time for children when a family member dies. The restrictions due to COVID-19 make it more challenging to meet the needs of children, particularly when a family member dies from COVID-19 infection. Find out how you can create new opportunities to help your child in this process.