Lay summary
Flynn is in the third year of the Biomedical Sciences degree majoring in Infection and Immunity at Otago University, interested in hauora Māori research focusing on health inequities and integration of Te Ao Māori with the use of Te Reo Māori. Flynn’s career goal is to train as a medical doctor working toward and for more equitable healthcare.
This summer project will explore interventions that support maternal immunisation against influenza, pertussis and COVID-19 through interviews with the four Regional Immunisation Coordinators. These regional coordinators are a source of expertise and leadership in training vaccination staff and advising vaccine education in clinic, as a result they are likely to have insights into such interventions.
Maternal immunisation is essential in the prevention of adverse health effects during pregnancy and during pēpē’s first 3 months of life. This project is likely to illuminate potential interventions to improve the health of māmā and pēpē.