Pioneering Australian researcher and the 2006 Australian of the Year,  Professor Ian Frazer,  is paying a short visit to New Zealand this week.

He is a guest of honour at the Medicines New Zealand Parliamentary Dinner this Wednesday evening, hosted by Chair of Parliament's Health Committee Simon O’Connor. The evening will be attended by researchers, patient groups, dignitaries,  MPs and health specialists.

Professor Frazer was involved with the research and development of the world's first cancer vaccine. The HPV vaccine, now protects millions of people worldwide against cervical cancer.

“Prevention of disease through vaccination is extremely important. We have already seen in our lifetimes how vaccination saves lives and eradicates diseases such as Polio, Smallpox and Mumps, ” says Dr Graeme Jarvis, General Manager of Medicines New Zealand.

“We are privileged to host Professor Frazer here in New Zealand. Healthcare costs are rising rapidly so it is timely we have a world leading expert talk about the positive effects of investing in preventative healthcare, “ says Hon Heather Roy, Chair of Medicines New Zealand.

Professor Frazer will also be giving educational seminars in Auckland on the 20th June in conjunction with the Sexually Transmitted Infections Education Foundation (STIEF) and Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC), and in Wellington on the 21st June in conjunction with Victoria University Wellington and the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research.

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Media contact:

Aaron Vinnell, Communications Advisor, Medicines New Zealand.

Ph: 027 534 6461