Public health alerts
The latest public health and product alerts and advice.
Pātiki and Waharua Kōpito patterns
Pertussis (whooping cough) epidemic across Aotearoa New Zealand
The National Public Health Service and the Public Health Agency declared a national pertussis (whooping cough) epidemic on 22 November 2024.
Read the public health alert and advice for the health sector:
Public health alert - National pertussis (whooping cough) epidemic - 22 November 2024 (PDF 172KB)
Product safety alert for 4Fr Bard/BD PICC lines
Information to share with patients who have a 4Fr Bard/BD PICC line
Our clinicians have reported issues with some 4Fr Bard/BD PICC lines. For example, some of these lines have developed a crack in them.
A PICC line is a peripherally inserted central catheter line. It is a long, flexible tube that is inserted into a vein, and is used to give medicines or fluids.
In response, Health NZ has taken a precautionary approach, to reduce any clinical and patient risks. We have alerted our clinical teams, so they check closely for any issues. We are also moving to use alternative products for new PICC line insertions.
Patients who are already using this product are being asked to be alert for any signs that there may be a problem. The attached brochure for patients includes more details about what to look for and what to do if there are any concerns.
This is not a product recall. There is no requirement to remove this type of PICC line, unless damage is suspected.
Health New Zealand has worked closely with Pharmac and Ministry of Health on this issue. A product safety alert has been issued by the manufacturer.
This alert relates solely to 4Fr Bard/BD PICC lines – it does not involve other sizes of BD PICC lines, or other brands.