The Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa New Zealand launched new Tongan and Samoan editions of its educational coloring book ahead of World Meningitis Day on 5 October.
The new bilingual editions, which include the Tongan and Samoan languages aim to make information more accessible to Pacific communities who are disproportionately affected by the disease.
Chair of the Meningitis Foundation said language and cultural connection are vital in raising awareness about the disease.
“Our goal is that every family in New Zealand, no matter their background, has access to information that could one day protect their loved ones. These new translations are part of our commitment to equity in health education,” Rushton said.
Between 2020 to 2024, Pacific people made up 13.4% of all cases of invasive meningococcal disease, despite comprising just 8.8% of the population.
Vaccination coverage also remains low with only 58.8% of eligible Pacific Children that are up to date with their vaccinations on the Aotearoa Immunization Register as of June 2025.
The coloring book was originally published in 2023 as a Te Reo Māori bilingual resource, ‘The Meningitis Coloring Book’ helps children and families understand the signs and symptoms of meningitis.
“Meningitis can affect anyone, anywhere, at any time. Making resources available in Pacific languages is a critical step in ensuring families across Aotearoa can recognize the signs and symptoms early.” Rushton said.
“The sooner meningitis is detected, the better the outcomes.”
World Meningitis Day is commemorated globally each year to raise awareness of meningitis and the importance of prevention, recognition, and treatment.
Symptoms
- A stiff, sore neck.
- A sensitivity to light, or a dislike of bright lights (an early warning sign of meningitis).
- A severe headache.
- If the child or adult is difficult to wake, or in a drowsy and confused state.
- A fever, sometimes accompanied by cold hands and feet.
- Aching sore joints.
- Vomiting – a common symptom of meningitis in both children and adults.
- Convulsive fits or seizures is characteristic of meningitis.
