Impact of a single–dose program on varicella hospitalizations and infectious disease inequity in New Zealand: A retrospective cohort study

The introduction of varicella vaccine on the National Immunization Schedule significantly reduced hospitalizations with varicella and its complications. However, health inequities in immunization coverage remain with Māori and Pacific children disproportionately affected. Efforts to increase vaccination coverage, particularly among underserved populations, are critical to sustaining and enhancing these gains.