Over 260,000 young children eligible for funded flu vaccines from 2027
From April 2027, New Zealand will fund influenza vaccines for all children aged six months to under five years, expanding eligibility to over 260,000 children as part of a broader vaccine investment package.
Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced that Pharmac will fund the flu vaccine for children aged six months up to five years starting in the 2027 flu season. The decision aims to ease pressure on households, schools, workplaces, and the health system during winter. Seymour stated that the move provides parents with an additional preventive measure to protect children’s health and reduce flu-related illness and doctor visits. The initiative targets more than 260,000 children, representing a preventive investment to lower illness rates and healthcare demand during peak flu months.
Pharmac’s decision also includes funding for 1.6 million New Zealanders in the first year, covering influenza vaccines for eligible groups such as those aged 65 and over, and individuals under 65 with high-risk health conditions. From April 2027, funded influenza vaccines will transition to newer formulations offering improved protection for older adults, at-risk individuals under 65, and young children. The changes reflect feedback from public consultation, where New Zealanders supported broader access to advanced influenza vaccines and stronger pneumococcal disease protection.
The expanded eligibility for funded flu vaccines will apply to all children aged six months up to their fifth birthday, inclusive, starting 1 April 2027. Pharmac will also update funded brands of influenza, meningococcal ACWY, and pneumococcal vaccines to enhance protection. Seymour highlighted that the changes align with Pharmac’s commitment to fund medicines based on public need and feedback, reinforcing a culture of responsiveness to community health priorities.
Seymour emphasized that the broader vaccine investment package reflects a practical approach to prevention, reducing the burden of flu-related illness on families and the healthcare system. The decision follows consultation where New Zealanders expressed support for improved vaccine access and stronger disease protection. Pharmac’s move is positioned as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public health outcomes through accessible and effective vaccination programs.