September 15, 2021
More answers as vaccines taken closer to community
A south Auckland Māori GP is welcoming the use of mobile vaccination services for hard to reach parts of the city.
Dr Matire Harwood works out of Papakura Marae.
She says being able to be vaccinated from a bus in their own community is a better way to reach many Māori.
Dr Harwood says many of her consultations now include an extended period of answering questions about Covid-19 and the vaccine, including the development process, and whether it’s OK for pregnant or breast feeding mothers – who are one of the priority groups.
“Women particularly in the final trimester, that last three months of their pregnancy, are at much increased risk for having complications from Covid so the vaccine itself doesn’t seem to cross the placenta to bubba but the antibodies the mum produces does seem to cross the placenta which is a great thing. it means bubba has a little bit of protection when they are born as well,” Dr Harwood says.
Six vaccination busses will be deployed in south Auckland from tomorrow, with more added later to service rural areas around the country.