We are currently seeing high numbers of people with influenza (flu) and other winter illnesses in our community. Most people will recover at home with rest, fluids and symptom management, but some people can become seriously unwell.
Help protect others
- Wear a mask if you have cold, flu or respiratory symptoms and need to attend a healthcare facility.
- Wash or sanitise your hands regularly.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Phone ahead where possible before attending your medical centre.
Seek medical advice if:
- Symptoms are worsening rather than improving.
- You have difficulty breathing.
- You are concerned about a young child, an older person, or someone with underlying health conditions.
- You have persistent high fever or signs of dehydration.
Protect yourself and your whānau
Influenza vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and hospitalisation. This year’s vaccine appears to be a good match for the influenza strains currently circulating.
Please be patient
Healthcare services are experiencing increased demand. Our teams are working hard to ensure everyone receives the care they need. Thank you for your patience and kindness towards staff.
Health New Zealand met earlier today with primary care and urgent care leaders to discuss the current increase in Influenza A activity across the region. While winter respiratory illness is a usual seasonal occurrence, current influenza activity remains high and is continuing to place pressure on both primary care and hospital services.
Key messages from the discussion included:
- Influenza A (predominantly H3N2) is the main circulating strain.
- General practices, urgent care services and Waikato Hospital are experiencing sustained demand.
- Continued vigilance is important, including triage, safety-netting and consideration of other serious illnesses that may present with similar symptoms.
- Mask use, hand hygiene and infection prevention measures remain important for reducing transmission.
- Current data suggests this year’s influenza vaccine is a good match for circulating strains.
- Practices may wish to share the following message with patients through newsletters, social media, websites, waiting room screens or patient portals:
