Waikato whare insulation drive to cut illness
Updated at 7:48 pm on 27 July 2012
The Maori Health Unit of the Waikato DHB is working to break the link between illness and poorly-heated homes.
Te Puna Oranga is promoting free insulation for 600 properties in an effort to reduce hospital admissions.
It says babies and children are most at risk.
General manager of Te Puna Oranga Ditre Tamatea says respiratory disease is the most likely result of a poorly-insulated house.
He says they are targeting high-need families because medical staff often see young children admitted to hospital for conditions which are caused by cold, damp homes.
Mr Tamatea says he has already received 50 applications from people who want the free floor and ceiling insulation.
Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand
