Staff
I am a medical officer at the Refugee Health Screening Service at Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre, a job that I have been doing since 1992. We examine all refugees at the centre and screen for tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, manage their day-to-day acute health needs and chronic health issues.…
READ MOREPublic Health
Chikungunya is a potentially debilitating illness that is caused by a virus and spread by mosquitoes.Chikungunya (pronounced chicken-goon-ya) may make you very sick and weak. The most common symptoms of chikungunya are fever and joint pain.The Aedes mosquitoes that spread chikungunya virus are not found in New Zealand. This means…
READ MOREOther
ARPHS is the largest of New Zealand’s 12 public health units.We employ a range of staff, including medical officers of health, senior medical officers, health protection officers, public health nurses, health promoters, systems intelligence and planning roles and management. We focus on the health of communities, the cause and spread of…
READ MOREStaff
I am a doctor working mainly in the area of notifiable infectious disease and other notifiable conditions. The bulk of my work is related to tuberculosis prevention and control in the Auckland region. I work with the public health nurses of north and west Auckland providing support and care to…
READ MOREStaff
I am Māori liaison advisor, providing strategic cultural advice, support and assistance to the general manager, clinical director, team managers, team leads and staff. I work closely with the chief advisor tikanga for the three Auckland region DHBs, as per the ARPHS treaty framework and manawhenua across Tamaki region.The areas…
READ MOREStaff
I am a GP at the Refugee Health Screening Service, as part of a team undertaking health screening of newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers in New Zealand. My main role is to manage chronic diseases detected at screening or on investigation, assess acute issues, and handover information to primary…
READ MOREStaff
I am a medical officer. My work is divided between the Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre and the Cornwall Complex at Greenlane Clinical Centre. At the refugee centre I provide medical screening and some medical care. At the Cornwall Complex I assess and manage notifiable diseases, and undertake infectious disease control…
READ MOREStaff
I manage the Communicable Disease Control team. I oversee our public health nurses, health care assistants, technical and administrative staff. This includes the refugee screening service based in south Auckland. The team provides a wide range of services, including managing notifiable diseases, contact tracing, managing tuberculosis cases and health screening…
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is following up on people who have become unwell after exposure to an unknown chemical at Augusta House in Victoria Street, Auckland. ARPHS staff are interviewing those people worst affected. The interviews are to determine where they were at the time of exposure and…
READ MOREStaff
I am a GP who works part time at Auckland Regional Public Health Service. I work at both the Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre and the Cornwall Complex, Greenlane. At the refugee centre I provide medical screening and GP services. At the Cornwell Complex I provide initial assessment, management and triage…
READ MORENews
If you live in Ōtāhuhu or surrounding areas, take precautionary measures to prevent breathing in smoke.Households in the affected area, down-wind of the fire, should close windows, doors and ventilation systems. Anyone who remains in the vicinity is advised to keep out of the smoke.If you have health concerns, call…
READ MOREStaff
I am a GP who works across several areas within the medical team at Auckland Regional Public Health Service. My main role is dealing with the daily notifications of specific diseases and I am also part of the tuberculosis team.I completed my medical studies in South Africa and worked in…
READ MORENews
Travellers who arrived at Auckland International Airport on Singapore Airlines flight SQ285 from Singapore at 11.45am on February 22 may have been exposed to measles, says the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS).Medical Officer of Health Dr Michael Hale says passengers in rows 31 to 49 were closest to the…
READ MORENews
With dengue fever outbreaks across the Pacific, Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is advising anyone travelling to the region to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.Auckland has seen a spike in dengue fever cases with 70 percent of cases from Samoa in the last two months.Medical Officer of Health…
READ MORENews
Barbecues, family feasts and outdoor eating go with the territory during the Christmas holidays – unfortunately so do the rates of gastroenteritis reported to public health.“Summer is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. No one wants food poisoning for Christmas - it could also ruin your family holiday. What’s even…
READ MOREPublic Health
Rubella (also known as German measles) is serious if a pregnant woman catches it, especially during the first three months of her pregnancy. A mother can pass rubella onto her unborn baby.Rubella is usually a mild viral illness. However, if a pregnant woman catches it – particularly in the first…
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is recommending that raw or marinated fish brought in by Pacific relatives should be off the menu, after a rise in food poisoning.Public Health has seen an increase in Shigella cases, a type of severe gastroenteritis caused by a bacteria commonly found in the…
READ MORENews
Four Auckland communities are experiencing small clusters of whooping cough cases with five local schools affected.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) Medical Officer of Health Dr Michael Hale says there have been eight cases in Laingholm, six cases in Henderson, three in the Tuakau area and three associated with a…
READ MOREPublic Health
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can make you very ill. It is very easy to pass on to others.Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhii. Without quick treatment, it can make you very ill or cause death.Typhoid fever is infectious. An infected person can pass…
READ MOREPublic Health
Hepatitis C is a virus that is spread through blood-to-blood contact. It can cause liver damage and liver cancer.Hepatitis C is a blood-borne disease that causes inflammation of the liver. There are more than 50,000 people in New Zealand with the hepatitis C virus, although it is estimated only half…
READ MOREPublic Health
Yellow fever is a short-lasting illness that is caused by a virus and spread by mosquitoes.Yellow fever is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. The term ‘yellow’ refers to the jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes of people who have serious cases of it.The Aedes…
READ MOREPublic Health
Rotavirus is a common cause of viral gastroenteritis that causes fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, mostly in babies and young children.Rotavirus is a common viral infection causing fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, mostly in babies and young children. It is very easily spread from one person to another.The main risk of rotavirus…
READ MOREPublic Health
Shigellosis is a type of food poisoning that can cause diarrhoea and stomach cramps. It is not common in New Zealand and is often acquired overseas. It is caused by the shigella bacteria. You can get it from eating food or drinking water that has been contaminated (made unsafe) by the…
READ MOREPublic Health
Paratyphoid fever is a bacterial infection that can spread throughout the body.Paratyphoid fever – also known as enteric fever – is a bacterial infection that can spread throughout the body. It is relatively rare in New Zealand. Most cases seen here are in people returning from overseas. People with severe…
READ MOREPublic Health
Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus.It is uncommon in New Zealand. If you are planning to travel to a developing country, you may be at risk, and should consider getting immunised.If you are concerned about hepatitis A call Healthline on 0800 611 116…
READ MOREPublic Health
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that causes two very serious illnesses: meningitis (an infection of the membranes that cover the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning).If you think you or your child may have these, seek immediate medical advice.It can affect anyone – but it’s more common in children under…
READ MOREPublic Health
Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that attacks and damages the liver.It was a common disease in New Zealand until a vaccine was introduced in the 1980s. Children who have the disease usually develop a very mild illness and sometimes have no sign of illness. The illness is more…
READ MOREPublic Health
Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause stomach or gut infection leading to vomiting and diarrhoea.Norovirus is very easily spread from one person to another.The virus can survive outside the body, so hard surfaces, toys, plates, cutlery and other objects can become contaminated. Careful cleaning of surfaces and hand…
READ MOREPublic Health
Asbestos is a proven carcinogen and cause of lung disease. People can be exposed to asbestos by breathing in tiny asbestos fibres in the air.Asbestos causes a number of lung diseases, including asbestosis – when lung issue becomes inflamed and scarred; and lung cancer and mesothelioma. The risk to health increases…
READ MORENews
This report highlights the role of Auckland Regional Public Health Service in protecting and promoting public health in the region.Although the breadth of our work is considerable, we do not operate alone. Delivering health solutions is a collaborative effort as we work alongside the three metro Auckland DHBs, Auckland Council,…
READ MOREStaff
I joined Auckland Regional Public Health Service in March 2017 as the medical operations manager, supporting and managing the team of doctors who in turn support the rest of the organisation. I also have a role in supporting the development of a quality culture within our organisation.I have worked in…
READ MOREStaff
I am environmental health manager at Auckland Regional Public Health Service, and an environmental and public health practitioner.Since immigrating to New Zealand I have undertaken specialist work in a range of health protection areas, in food safety and suitability, and have managed bivalve molluscan shellfish and marine biotoxin programmes. I…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health medicine specialist and medical officer of health. I am currently working in the areas of hazardous substances, border health, and arboviral disease. At Auckland Regional Public Health Service I have also worked in the areas of alcohol and tobacco enforcement, emergency management, rheumatic fever and…
READ MOREStaff
I am a GP who started work at Auckland Regional Public Health Service in early 2017. I am passionate about wellness and disease prevention so it is exciting to be part of the team, aiming to improve the health of Aucklanders.My roles include being part of the enteric/disease investigation medical…
READ MOREPublic Health
Mumps is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus. It can be prevented by a measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination.Mumps causes swelling in the glands around the face. It is a virus that is very easily spread to other people.Your family/whānau’s best protection against mumps is to be…
READ MOREResources
The ARPHS Strategic Plan 2017-2022 outlines how ARPHS will achieve its vision of Te Ora ō Tāmaki Makaurau.The essence of this vision is promoting and protecting the health and wellbeing of the people who live in Tāmaki Makaurau and the environment in which we reside.We recognise that public health gain…
READ MOREPublic Health
Malaria is spread by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, and can cause fever, chills and flu-like symptoms.Malaria is spread by the bite of the Anopheles mosquito when it is infected with the malarial parasite. There are five types of malaria that can infect human beings. Symptoms include fever,…
READ MOREPublic Health
Salmonella infection is a type of food poisoning that can cause diarrhoea and stomach cramps.Salmonella is caused by bacteria which live in the intestines of people, birds and animals. When a person, bird or animal is infected they pass the bacteria out in their faeces (poo).You can get salmonella from…
READ MOREPublic Health
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that can give you diarrhoea and sometimes make you feel very sick.Cryptosporidium (also called ‘crypto’) is a parasite found in the gut of infected people and animals. It is passed on in the faeces of infected humans and animals. People become infected when they swallow the…
READ MOREPublic Health
Agrichemicals are chemicals used in agriculture for various reasons. When the spray drifts away from the target area, it is known as spray-drift.Spray-drift can cause health problems and contaminate water and food sources.Spray-drift may: affect your health contaminate (make unsafe) water supplies, such as drinking water collected from the roofs of houses contaminate…
READ MOREPublic Health
Influenza – or the flu – is a virus that spreads quickly from person to person. Some people get very sick – influenza causes number of deaths every year.Symptoms include fever, chills, aches, runny nose, a cough and stomach upset.The influenza virus infects your nose, throat and lungs. The flu…
READ MOREPublic Health
Zika virus is spread by mosquitoes and can be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy. Infection is linked to birth defects in babies. Zika virus is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquito. The mosquitoes that can spread the virus are not normally…
READ MOREPublic Health
Yersiniosis is a bowel infection caused by the Yersinia bacteria. It is usually caught from eating contaminated or poorly handled food, often pork.Other sources are infected household pets and farm animals – especially pigs. Untreated water, or an infected person who handles food, can also spread Yersinia bacteria.Yersiniosis causes flu-like…
READ MOREPublic Health
Giardia is a parasite that can give you diarrhoea and sometimes make you feel very sick.Giardia is a parasite found in the gut of infected people and animals. It is passed on in the faeces of infected humans and animals. People become infected when they swallow the parasites, usually in…
READ MOREPublic Health
VTEC or STEC infection is a type of food poisoning that can cause diarrhoea and stomach cramps.Escherichia coli or E. coli are common germs (bacteria) normally found in the gut of warm-blooded animals and people. There are many types of E coli, most of which are harmless and are an…
READ MOREPublic Health
Dengue fever is a serious viral illness that is spread by mosquitoes.Dengue fever is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes and muscle or bone pain. Dengue can make you very sick, and severe dengue can kill.The Aedes…
READ MOREPublic Health
Cholera is a disease that causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration, and is usually spread through contaminated (unsafe) water.Left untreated, cholera can quickly be fatal, even in previously healthy people. But it can be easily treated by giving people enough fluids to replace the fluids they have lost.Modern sewerage and water…
READ MOREPublic Health
Legionellosis or Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria that live in the environment, especially in soil, composts, potting mixes and water.People can get Legionella after inhaling mist or spray from water containing Legionella bacteria, or from inhaling dust from soil containing the bacteria.It is a lung condition with similar…
READ MOREStaff
I am a senior medical officer and researcher at Auckland Regional Public Health Service, as well as a medical adviser to the immunisation advisory centre (IMAC).I originally trained as an immunologist before studying medicine and becoming a GP. I still work in general practice most weeks.
READ MOREStaff
I am a GP who works across several areas within the Health Protection team. I help control germs such as tuberculosis and legionella, and follow up when there are notifications of other diseases. I also work at the Refugee Health Screening Service, undertaking health screening and management of health conditions…
READ MOREStaff
I am an epidemiologist and undertake epidemiological analysis to support the work carried out at Auckland Regional Public Health Service. For example, I have been involved in modelling the 2017 mumps outbreak, and an analysis of verotoxigenic E. coli cases. I also support the analysis of data collected during foodborne…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health physician and medical officer of health, and the clinical lead for nutrition, physical activity promotion, healthy urban form and pertussis.I have had over 14 years’ experience in the public health sector, including roles in the Heart Foundation, the National Screening Unit and the Health Quality…
READ MOREStaff
I manage the Health Improvement team. The team undertakes work in the areas of long-term conditions, including obesity, smokefree and alcohol harms. It also has a focus on settings and targeted population approaches to public health – such as early childhood and workplaces. We also provide support to Auckland DHB…
READ MOREStaff
I support a diverse team of people who keep our business activities going. This includes roles in information systems, emergency management, policy, communications, workforce development and business support. Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) has a rapidly growing population, and Auckland Regional Public Health Service must be prepared for disease outbreaks and environmental…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health medical specialist and medical officer of health, working mainly in environmental health and public policy. I am involved in water quality (for drinking, swimming and as waste water), air quality, land contamination, waste management and legionellosis. My other areas of interest include the built environment,…
READ MOREStaff
I am general manager of the Auckland Regional Public Health Service. I have a BA in nursing and education, and a graduate diploma in health science (health management). I began my career in health as a registered nurse.I joined Auckland Regional Public Health Service in February 2015 having led the…
READ MOREStaff
I am the Pacific liaison advisor at Auckland Regional Public Health Service, providing Pacific cultural perspectives and strategic cultural support and assistance to senior management and staff. The areas I have input into include planning and reporting, service delivery, workforce development and training, recruitment and retention, quality, and emergency and…
READ MOREStaff
I am a medical officer with the Communicable Disease Control team. I lead the surveillance portfolio and manage low-risk enterics operations. I share the role of outbreak response lead and also spend time at the Refugee Health Screening Service at the Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre.I have a general practice background,…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health physician and GP, and the clinical director for the Auckland Regional Public Health Service. In my role as clinical director, and in collaboration with the general manager, I have a responsibility for the overall clinical performance of the service.I have previously had roles at the…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health medicine specialist, and the clinical lead at the Auckland Regional Public Health Service in sexually transmitted infections, blood borne viruses, arboviral and vector borne diseases.I qualified as a medical doctor in the UK and completed my public health training there as well. My 10 years’…
READ MOREOther
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is responsible for preventing disease and improving the health of the people in our region.This means: People are protected from the harm of infectious diseases People are kept safe from the impact of environmental hazards People live free from harm associated with hazards like tobacco and alcohol The…
READ MOREOther
Auckland Regional Public Health Service is a public health unit working with the three District Health Boards of the Auckland Region.The information contained on this website is derived from a number of sources. While Auckland Regional Public Health Service has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all information is from…
READ MOREHealth Information
New Zealand Immunisation ScheduleThe National Immunisation Schedule is the series of vaccines that are offered free to babies, children, adolescents and adults. View the schedule of vaccines as at 1 January 2017.Immunisation Handbook 2017Download the Immunisation Handbook 2017 hereBCG immunisationFor more information visit the Ministry of Health website.Babies and children…
READ MOREPublic Health
What happens to our wastewater affects human health and our environment.We use large amounts of water in our homes, workplaces and buildings. After we have used this water, it doesn’t just go 'away' – it has to go somewhere. Some of it soaks into the ground, but much of it…
READ MOREPublic Health
Having safe drinking water is essential for good health.Most people in Auckland are on town water supply provided by the Watercare Services Ltd. There are also a number of smaller water suppliers, and some people manage their own household water supply.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) Drinking Water Assessment Unit…
READ MORENews
Public health officials will be working with licensed clubs, theatres and hospitality venues over Auckland in the upcoming months to ensure compliance with the Smoke-free Environments Act.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) Health Improvement Manager, Dean Adam says a simple and cheap way of complying with the Act is for…
READ MOREPublic Health
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, that can be very serious. It is prevented by the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination.Measles is caused by a virus and is easily spread from person to person. Both children and adults can get measles, and it can be very serious. A…
READ MOREOther
Information and resources forhealth professionals in AucklandThis section has information for health professionals on notifiable diseases and surveillance, on refugee health and on vaccination programmes. It also has important advice on outbreaks and other emerging public health issues.To make a disease notification or for public health advice, call 09 623 4600. We…
READ MORENews
The Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) has confirmed a second case of measles. It is likely this person has caught the disease on flight SQ285 which landed in Auckland on 22 February 2018.The latest case is an AUT student and ARPHS is working closely with AUT to determine the…
READ MORENews
With some households in the region facing two or more days without electricity, it will be important to take care with food from the fridge and freezer.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) Medical Officer of Health, Dr David Sinclair, is advising people without power to follow guidelines around food spoilage…
READ MOREResources
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is investigating five new cases of mumps every day, as the number of notifications of the disease continues to rise.The latest figures show 148 cases, up from 138 cases on Monday 3 July. This is compared with 13 cases for 2016 (see note to…
READ MORENews
A ‘lost generation’ of young people is facing a triple threat of potentially serious diseases as a result of low immunisation rates in many Auckland communities.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) warns that the 300 mumps cases in the region since January points to a large number of 10 to…
READ MOREPublic Health
Campylobacter infection is a water- and food-borne gastro illness that can cause diarrhoea and stomach cramps.Campylobacter infection is a common water- and food-borne gastro illness caused by a bacteria called Campylobacter. The most common way to become infected is by eating raw or undercooked chicken or other poultry. It can also…
READ MOREPublic Health
Gastroenteritis (tummy bug) gives you diarrhoea and vomiting, and is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections.The symptoms of gastroenteritis are frequent diarrhoea or vomiting or both. These symptoms can be caused by a number of different bugs, but are usually viral or bacterial infections. With gastroenteritis, your stomach and…
READ MOREHealth Information
BCG ENDORSEMENTTo be endorsed as a new BCG vaccinator, you must apply to the local medical officer of health and provide the following documented evidence that you: have been nominated by your employer for endorsement as a BCG vaccinator working within a local BCG Programme are a currently authorised vaccinator have successfully completed a…
READ MOREPublic Health
The Disease Investigation (DI) team at Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is responsible for investigating food- and water-borne diseases.It deals with a wide range of diseases such as salmonella and hepatitis A, shigella, VTEC (E.coli) infection, typhoid, listeriosis and gastroenteritis relating to contaminated foods. These are generally alerted to…
READ MOREPublic Health
Keeping your hands clean and drying them properly helps prevent the spread of illnesses.Every day we come into contact with thousands of tiny germs that can make us sick. Keeping your hands clean helps prevent the spread of these germs to your mouth and to other people, and helps you…
READ MOREOther
Want to work with New Zealand's largest public health provider?The Auckland Regional Public Health Service is New Zealand's largest public health service, working to promote and protect the health and wellbeing of all people in Tāmaki Makaurau (the Auckland region).Based in Greenlane in Auckland, through the provision of a wide…
READ MOREPublic Health
Rheumatic fever is a serious illness that usually starts with a sore throat or other infection. If untreated, it can cause heart damage.Rheumatic fever is a serious but preventable illness. It can make children very sick and may cause damage to the heart. This can mean a lifetime of feeling…
READ MORENews
Public health typically observes a seasonal increase of meningococcal disease from June to September each year and is currently managing new cases.“Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal disease. It is caused by bacteria spread by very close or many hours of prolonged contact with an infected person. Be…
READ MOREHealth Information
LOCAL IMMUNISATION PROGRAMMEAuthorised vaccinators can only independently administer vaccines that are part of an approved immunisation programme (either national or local).The National Immunisation Schedule, which includes all publically funded vaccines, is an approved national immunisation programme. If an authorised vaccinator would like to administer vaccines that are not part of…
READ MOREPublic Health
Auckland Regional Public Health Service helps manage the potential spread of diseases of public health concern brought into the country by international travellers.Modern global travel means disease can be spread quickly around the world. This means having systems in place to check entry points into New Zealand to reduce harm…
READ MOREOther
The latest advice to health professionalsabout disease outbreaks and emerging public health issues in the Auckland region.
READ MORENews
Dengue feverThere has been an increase (~120%) in the number of cases of dengue fever for the three months between April and June. A lesser increase (~50%) has occurred if the last quarter results are compared with the corresponding quarter in the last three years. Dengue is endemic in much…
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is concerned not enough young Aucklanders are immunised in the face of an unrelenting mumps outbreak.“This year we have had over 130 mumps cases in Auckland compared with 35 investigations last year. Unfortunately 80% of the current cases were not fully vaccinated. It is…
READ MOREResources
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) has sent staff to a Motutapu Island camp to provide protective antibiotics and assess the risk to others after a young man attending the camp died from suspected meningococcal disease last night in Auckland City Hospital.There are 190 people at the St John youth…
READ MOREHealth Information
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Who is an asylum seeker?When people flee their own country and seek sanctuary in another country, they apply for asylum – the right to be recognised as a refugee and receive legal protection and material assistance. An asylum seeker must demonstrate that his or her fear of persecution…
READ MOREPublic Health
Water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the natural level of fluoride in the water supply to between 0.7ppm and 1.0ppm. This is the optimal amount that provides protection against tooth decay, and is recommended by the World Health Organization. For more information on fluoridation, please visit the Ministry of Health.Community…
READ MOREOther
Information and resources for the Auckland publicFind out about limiting the spread of diseases, healthy environments and the promotion of health and wellbeing in the Auckland region.
READ MOREPublic Health
Roof or tank water quality may be affected by contamination and weather conditions.Many households in the Auckland region use roof water, bores and tank water supplies as their domestic supply or to supplement the water supply from the council. Householders need to know how to look after their roof, bore…
READ MOREHealth Information
SERVICES FOR REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERAll publicly provided health services are available to people from refugee backgrounds. There are some specific services that are outlined by region. To view contact details of health services for refugees and asylum seekers in your region see below.
READ MOREPublic Health
Having clean air is essential for good health.Auckland’s outdoor air quality (also called 'ambient air quality') meets New Zealand and international standards and guidelines in most places and most times of year, and better than many cities of similar size.Auckland’s air quality has improved over the last 20 years, but…
READ MOREPublic Health
In summer, Auckland occasionally experiences extremely hot days. There are steps you can take to help you and your family stay well during periods of hot weather.There are groups of people more at risk of experiencing heat-related health problems during periods of hot weather. These groups include: Older people, people with…
READ MOREPublic Health
Houses that are warm, dry and well ventilated help to keep us healthy and well.Your health is affected by your housing – where it is, how well it is built, how warm, dry, well insulated and well ventilated it is, how many people live in it, and how much it…
READ MOREPublic Health
Exposure to lead can result in lead poisoning, which can be serious and can cause health issues and symptoms.Most cases of lead poisoning come from paint stripping on houses built before the 1980s, indoor shooting, casting of lead bullets, fish sinkers and diving weights, lead smelting and consumption of alternative…
READ MOREPublic Health
Eating shellfish contaminated by marine biotoxins, bacteria, viruses or chemicals may cause serious illness.Shellfish are a high-risk food because they may grow in contaminated (unsafe) water where they filter and accumulate biotoxins, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals from their surroundings. They are often eaten without being cooked. People who eat contaminated…
READ MOREPublic Health
Championing an Auckland free from alcohol-related harm.ARPHS aims to improve the health and wellbeing for all people by minimising alcohol related harm in our region. We do this through a range of regulatory and health promotion activities including ensuring compliance with the law, involvement with alcohol-related policy and submissions, working…
READ MOREHealth Information
Authorised vaccinators are health professionals who can legally administer vaccines that are part of an approved immunisation programme without a prescription or standing order.To become an authorised vaccinator, you must apply to the local Medical Officer of Health for your region. In the Auckland region, you must apply to the…
READ MOREHealth Information
Five key messages for 2018 Immunisation is the best protection against influenza. Get a ‘flu shot’ before winter annually. A mild case of influenza can disrupt your life. Many people don’t feel unwell with influenza but can still pass it on to others. Get immunised to prevent influenza spread in your community. Influenza immunisation is…
READ MOREHealth Information
New Zealand is one of 26 countries that take part in the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) regular resettlement programme.There are currently 68.5 million forcibly displaced people worldwide and 25.4 million refugees.*There are 1000 refugees who are resettled in New Zealand each year.Newly arrived refugees are accommodated at…
READ MOREPublic Health
Tetanus is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria usually found in soil. It is sometimes called ‘lockjaw’.It affects your nervous system and can cause severe muscle contractions, mainly of your jaw and neck muscles.Tetanus bacteria enter the body through wounds such as cuts and grazes. This could happen, for…
READ MOREPublic Health
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly infectious disease that is spread by coughing and sneezing.It's caused by bacteria, which damage the breathing tubes, and can be very serious for babies and children, especially those under one year of age. The best protection against whooping cough is immunisation.Young children – especially…
READ MOREOther
The health of Auckland’s population is important to us, but we may not be the best place for the topic you’re trying to find.Below is a list of organisations with a few topics you may be looking for. These organisations also do work in many other areas – please visit…
READ MOREHealth Information
Health practitioners are required by Section 74 of the Health Act 1956 to report to the medical officer of health (MOH) any patient they have 'reasonable suspicion' is suffering from a notifiable disease. Notification allows for appropriate public health control measures to be taken to reduce the risk of further spread,…
READ MOREPublic Health
ARPHS is responsible for investigating cases of infectious diseases, such as measles, tuberculosis (TB) and bugs that cause diarrhoea and vomiting.There are over 36 pages relating to different diseases in this section. Some of the diseases are ‘notifiable’ which means they have to be reported to the Medical Officer of…
READ MOREPublic Health
We carry out health and safety assessments for early childhood education centres in the Auckland region to assess compliance with legislative requirements.These assessments are carried out as part of licensing or relicensing of centres, or if a concern has been raised about a centre. We look at child health at…
READ MOREPublic Health
Listeria is a foodborne bacterial illness which can make you sick. Infection with listeria bacteria is called listeriosis.Listeriosis is particularly dangerous for pregnant women. It can cause miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth, and can cause infection in their baby.Listeria is a common bacterium (bug) widely found in dust, soil, water,…
READ MOREPublic Health
Jellyfish stings can happen when you are swimming in the sea and can be extremely painful.There are at least three types of jellyfish in New Zealand known to cause stings.Even tiny jellyfish can sting and, because they are so small and almost transparent, they can get trapped unnoticed in swimwear,…
READ MOREPublic Health
ARPHS is one of the Auckland region's response agencies.We have a regional role in emergency planning and response for infectious disease outbreaks, environmental hazards and pandemics.Many emergencies have a public health component – whether they are natural disasters, man-made disasters or infectious diseases. ARPHS works with the District Health Boards,…
READ MOREPublic Health
Auckland’s rapid growth and development is having a major impact on the quality of our air, land and water.We also face other environmental risks such as disease-carrying mosquitoes and hazardous substances such as lead and asbestos.Our staff work to protect and promote the health and wellbeing of people across the…
READ MOREPublic Health
Auckland Regional Public Health Service supports immunisation as a safe and effective way to help prevent serious illness in babies and children.For questions about immunisation and vaccination-preventable diseases, contact the Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC).For information on the immunisation status of your child, please contact your family doctor.
READ MORENews
An undercover operation by public health in Mangere revealed that three out of 10 outlets investigated on a single day were selling cigarettes illegally.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) regularly carries out stings using teenage volunteers who visit retailers to ensure that tobacco sales comply with the legislation. By law,…
READ MOREPublic Health
Smoking tobacco causes harm to individuals, families and communities.Māori are disproportionately affected by smoking with Māori women having the highest smoking rates in the country.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) aims to prevent further harm from tobacco by the promotion of social, physical and environmental strategies to improve and protect the…
READ MOREPublic Health
A safe supply of drinking water is an essential requirement for health. ARPHS has a key role in ensuring reticulated water in Auckland is safe and reliable.ARPHS works with Auckland Council to ensure people know where they should swim, along with providing advice and recommendations for waste water requirements. Related websites Auckland…
READ MOREResources
This brochure shows how you can eat healthy and move more throughout the day.View pdf Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with
READ MOREResources
This resource talks about the reasons why a baby may cry, gives tips for how to cope, and explains the damage that can be caused by shaking a baby.View pdf Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with
READ MOREResources
This resource is for people who are managing their own suicidal thoughts or feelings. It offers information about what support is available, advice from people who have lived through their own suicidal thoughts, and suggestions about recovery.View PDF Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with …
READ MOREResources
Being SunSmart is about protecting skin and eyes from damaging UV radiation - especially when outdoors from September to April.View pfd Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with
READ MOREResources
Food information for adults. Promotes a healthy lifestyle through daily activity or exercise, food variety, less fatty food, reducing fat and sugar, lower-fat fast foods, healthy kai, improved health, body shape and size.View pdf Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with
READ MOREResources
Information for adults talking about the National Immunisation Register, and why it is important that immunisation information is recorded.View pdf Order multiple copies HealthEd resources are developed in conjunction with
READ MOREOther
Public Health The art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organised efforts of society. - Acheson, 1988; WHO
READ MORENews
READ MORENews
READ MOREOther
Sorry, it seems you were trying to access a page that doesn't exist.Please check the spelling of the URL you were trying to access and try again.
READ MOREOther
Supporting healthier New Zealand communitiesThese resources will help you to make informed decisions for yourself and those you care about.You can also order free resources from HealthEd - a catalogue of health information brought to you by the Health Promotion Agency (HPA) and the Ministry of Health.
READ MOREPublic Health
TB is an infection that is spread through the air, and most commonly infects your lungs.TB is a treatable infectious disease caused by a bacterium known as mycobacterium tuberculosis. In New Zealand there are approximately 300 cases of TB diagnosed each year. Life-threatening complications such as bleeding from the lungs…
READ MORENews
Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is pleased with a community win from its opposition to a new off-licence application in South Auckland.ARPHS Clinical Director Dr Julia Peters says Public Health, Police and Auckland Council opposed the application for a fifth bottle store within one kilometre radius of the proposed…
READ MOREOther
Kia ora, welcome toAuckland Regional Public Health ServiceNau mai haere mai ki Rātonga Hauora ā Iwi o Tamaki MakaurauTe Ora ō Tāmaki MakaurauWe strive to protect health, prevent disease, reduce inequities and promote wellbeing for the people and environment of Auckland.
READ MOREPublic Health
Due to high demand for the BCG vaccination (as it was unavailable for almost two years pre-August 2018), it may be some time before we notify you of an appointment date. If your child is under 6 months old we will notify you in 2-4 weeks. If your child is…
READ MOREOther
Due to the high number of people phoning and filling out the online form, it may be some time before we notify you of an appointment date. If your child is under 6 months old we will notify you in 2-4 weeks. If your child is older it may be…
READ MORENews
Travellers who arrived at Auckland International Airport on Malaysia Airlines MH133 from Kuala Lumpur at 11pm on 15th April 2018 may have been exposed to measles.Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) has been contacting the passengers seated in rows 28 to 44, closest to the infectious person, to check their…
READ MORENews
With a rise in dengue fever in travellers returning from holidays, Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is encouraging anyone travelling to the Pacific and South East Asia this summer to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.Auckland has seen a rise in total dengue cases in travellers returning from holidays.…
READ MOREStaff
I am a public health medicine specialist responsible for enteric diseases, as well as being the clinical partner for laboratory services support and for informatics. I work closely with the environmental health and informatics teams on health protection and information solutions. Having graduated from medical school in the United Kingdom I…
READ MOREPublic Health
ARPHS supports efforts to keep exotic mosquitoes from becoming established in New Zealand.Mosquitoes from overseas – called ‘exotic’ mosquitoes – can carry diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika, yellow fever and malaria.
READ MORE