Let’s be MPI’s eyes and ears

Over 1,000 Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in Hawke’s Bay have been immunised against measles through outreach clinics held since August, with 1205 workers from various Pacific countries receiving the MMR vaccine. Project lead Sipaia Kupa emphasizes the importance of protecting workers and their families from potential measles outbreaks, highlighting the contagious nature of the disease. This initiative, supported by Health NZ and various organizations, aims to prevent measles outbreaks in New Zealand by vaccinating...

The UNSC meeting on the Middle East addressed Israel's attacks on Gaza's hospitals and medical workers, leading to the arbitrary arrest of Kamal Adwan Hospital's director, Hussam Abu Safia. Norway condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need to protect healthcare and uphold international humanitarian law. Amnesty International criticized Israel's detention of Dr. Abu Safia, highlighting a pattern of genocidal intent and unlawful treatment of medical staff in Gaza. Full Article

Public health researcher Dr. Anja Mizdrak advocates for warning labels on alcoholic drinks to reduce alcohol-related cancers, as Surgeon-General Vivek Murthy calls for similar measures in the US. Mizdrak emphasizes the need for additional policies beyond labeling, such as reducing availability and increasing taxes on alcohol. Despite opposition from the alcohol industry, New Zealand Health Minister Shane Reti and Labour's health spokesperson Dr. Ayesha Verrall support raising awareness of alcohol's cancer risks through labeling and...

out of the summary. The provisional drowning total for 2024 is the lowest in six years, with 71 preventable drownings reported. Water Safety New Zealand attributes the decrease to a focus on water survival skills for young people, resulting in a drop in drowning rates for school-age children and 15-24-year-olds. Challenges persist, with men over 55 being the highest water users and powered craft-related incidents on the rise. Full Article

The Pakuranga Action Indoor Centre, under new owner Mark Gardiner, offers indoor netball and cricket, as well as pickle ball, corporate functions, and coaching. The facility, known for its high-quality sports programs, operates rain or shine and is undergoing renovations to become one of the nicest clubs in Auckland. Local netball coach Chrissy Grey has seen young talents like Lataliah Tito and Emmie Ualoa, who have played for New Zealand, develop at the centre. Full...

Karen Chhour, the children's minister, embraces her emotional nature as a coping mechanism for trauma, viewing it as a strength rather than a weakness. Throughout the year, she has faced tough decisions, including repealing Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act and implementing cost-cutting measures. Despite facing strong opposition and criticism, Chhour remains determined to make a positive impact, drawing from her personal experiences of abuse and neglect in state care to drive her work...