The Counties-Manukau District Health Board has hit the Government’s 90 percent first COVID-19 vaccination dose target.
Manurewa-Papakura Auckland Councillor Daniel Newman says that’s a huge milestone but work to get the area fully vaccinated must carry on. “I knew we would get there and so many people have worked hard to make it happen.”
Vaccination rates in the Māori and Pasifika communities surged as health providers in the area reached deep into the community, Newman joining house to house efforts. “Every vaccination means we are a bit stronger against the pandemic.”
Auckland District Health Board was the first to hit the 90 per cent target and is closing in on second doses, with Waitemata 83 per cent for second doses and Counties Manukau also beyond 80 per cent.
“With Super Shot Saturday three weeks behind us I’m hoping people will come for that second dose. Anyone with family, friends or workmates who haven’t been, should encourage them, and it’s not too late to get a first dose either,” he says.
Vaccination centres will be set up in Manurewa, Wiri, and on Papakura streets in the coming days and Newman says everyone can play a part in lifting rates, something that could see people coming together in time for Christmas.
Drive through vaccination centres have made it possible for even more people to join the fight against the pandemic.
"We need to play our parts, whether that be by getting vaccinated or by supporting events that allow that to happen.”
And he says the efforts of businesses in providing incentives needs to be acknowledged.
“Some say we shouldn’t need them, but I back anything that gets another person over the line because it takes us one step closer to a return to normal, and more importantly, it’s another person protected from a terrible disease and the heartache it brings.”
In the last month the 20-plus school and community pop-ups averaged around 375 vaccinations, while the South Auckland Superheroes campaign has taken Māori leaders and doctors into the streets using korero to share reliable information.
Campervan teams have targeted neighbourhoods with low vaccination rates, Māori and Pasifika clinicians have door-knocked alongside local leaders, youth leaders have begun online forums with the vaccine hesitant, and health teams have reached into workplaces.
“I’d only forget to mention someone if I tried to list all those who have helped,” Newman says. “But without that support, and the hours needed to organise it and make the kai, hygiene and gift packs, we would not be within sight of our goal.”
