Pharmac expands access to meningococcal B vaccine for children under 5

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. 

“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.