Thousands more children will be offered free protection against potentially deadly meningococcal B with Pharmac’s decision to expand eligibility for the vaccine.

From September 1, the agency will fund the Bexsero vaccine for all children under 5, regardless of whether they started or completed their course before turning one.

This replaced the current catch-up programme, which ends on August 31.

Pharmac’s pharmaceuticals manager, Adrienne Martin, said under-5s were “the most vulnerable to serious illness from meningococcal disease”.

“This decision is about removing barriers,” she said.

“We want to ensure that no child misses out on protection just because they couldn’t complete their vaccine course in their first year.”

The vaccine was already part of the immunisation schedule for babies in their first year of life.

The new criteria meant those who missed earlier doses could still be protected, potentially benefiting up to 77,000 more children.

Health NZ’s national public health director, Dr Nick Chamberlain, said the decision was a significant step forward in protecting children.

“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.”

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.

- RNZ