Pharmac is extending access to the meningococcal B
vaccine (Bexsero), with up to 77,000 more children able to
benefit.
From 1 September 2025, all children under
five years of age will be eligible for funded doses of
Bexsero, regardless of whether they started or completed
their vaccine course in their first year. This replaces the
current catch-up programme, which ends on 31 August
2025.
The vaccine is already part of the childhood
immunisation schedule for children up to 12 months of age.
The new eligibility criteria mean that children who missed
earlier doses can still be
protected.
“We know how serious
meningococcal disease can be, especially for young
children,” says Pharmac’s Manager Pharmaceuticals
Adrienne Martin. “By expanding access, we’re helping
families complete their child’s vaccine course and
improving protection for those most at
risk.”
Children under five are the most
vulnerable to serious illness from meningococcal disease.
This change supports better protection for this high-risk
group and makes it easier for families to access the
vaccine.
“This decision is about removing
barriers,” says Martin. “We want to ensure that no child
misses out on protection just because they couldn’t
complete their vaccine course in their first
year.”
Health New Zealand’s National Public Health
Director Dr Nick Chamberlain says it welcomes Pharmac’s
decision to extend access to the meningococcal B
vaccine.
“Pharmac’s move to extend access to
Bexsero for all children under five is a significant step
forward in protecting those most vulnerable to meningococcal
disease.
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“This change brings clarity for the health
sector and removes barriers for families, making it easier
to complete the vaccine course. Health New Zealand will
continue working closely with providers to support the
rollout and ensure eligible children receive this important
protection,” said Dr Chamberlain.
While the
eligibility criteria for older children and adults at higher
risk remain unchanged, Pharmac has clarified the wording to
make it easier to understand. Teenagers and young adults
living in shared accommodation, such as boarding schools,
halls of residence, military barracks, and prisons, continue
to be eligible under the current
rules.
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