As part of World Meningitis Day (Oct 5), the Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa has released bilingual Samoan and Tongan editions of The Meningitis Colouring Book, making the resource more accessible to Pacific families.
Originally published in 2023 in te reo Māori, the book uses child-friendly illustrations to explain the signs and symptoms of meningitis. With support from translators, health experts, and community advocates, the Foundation has expanded the series to reach more communities disproportionately impacted by the disease.
Pacific peoples make up 13.4% of meningococcal cases in Aotearoa despite being 8.8% of the population, and only 58.8% of eligible Pacific children are up to date with vaccinations.
Foundation Chair Gerard Rushton says cultural connection is key: “Meningitis can affect anyone. Providing resources in Pacific languages helps families recognise the signs early — and early detection saves lives.”
The colouring books will be distributed through early childhood centres, health providers, and Pacific community groups.
