Tragic death a wakeup call

The Asthma Foundation

Media Release

5 June 2015

Tragic death a wakeup call

The tragic death of young toddler Emma-Lita Bourne should be a wakeup call to the country. In a first world nation like New Zealand, no vulnerable child should have to live in such a cold, damp house.

Dr Kyle Perrin, medical director of the Asthma Foundation says "Overcrowded, damp and poorly heated housing is one of the most important contributors to the poor respiratory health of children in New Zealand."

Statistics from the latest Impact of respiratory disease in New Zealand report show children in the lowest decile neighbourhoods, and from Pacific and Maori communities are massively over-represented in hospital admissions for respiratory disease.

For example, in 2013, there were over 3000 admissions to hospital for bronchiolitis (a common respiratory infection in children under 5) among children from the poorest households, compared to just 300 among children in the wealthiest. Living in a warm, dry home with an adequate income is paramount in ensuring all New Zealanders have the best possible chance to live a healthy life.

The view of the Asthma Foundation is that unless a major national investment to improve the housing stock is made, including both private rentals and state housing, tragic and avoidable respiratory infections like this one will continue to occur. In addition, we strongly support the push for a compulsory Warrant of Fitness for all rental properties.

The Asthma Foundation is developing a National Respiratory Strategy. This is an important first step toward addressing the huge burden and impact of respiratory disease on individuals, families and the New Zealand health system. The Strategy will provide recommendations for government agencies, district health boards, primary health organisations, health workers and community organisations.

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