Immunisation handbook 2026 - version 2

Version 2 of the Immunisation Handbook 2026 has been published on the Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora website. It is currently available as a PDF only, with a full web version expected by the end of May 2026. Vaccinators are encouraged to regularly check the Handbook and always use the most current version.

What has changed?

• Post-vaccination observation period: The standard observation period is now 15 minutes for all vaccines across all age groups, whether administered alone or alongside other vaccines. This may be increased based on clinical judgement, or reduced to 5 minutes when specified criteria are met.
• 2026 influenza season: Vaccine information has been updated, including guidance on adjuvanted and cell-based vaccines. All updates are reflected in the 2026 Winter Preparedness Kit.
• Two-dose influenza guidance for young children: Children aged 6 months to under 4 years receiving influenza vaccine for the first time should now be offered 2 doses at least 4 weeks apart. Note this change does not apply to children who are severely immunocompromised and receiving influenza vaccine for the first time.

For feedback or to receive notifications of future updates, contact immunisation@tewhatuora.govt.nz.