Central is experiencing a large number of Influenza A cases and doctors are including advice in newsletters to raise community awareness.

A health worker at Dunstan Hospital, who wanted to remain anonymous, said there had been many cases of flu and some people admitted, who have been very sick during the last few weeks. 

Health New Zealand (HNZ) national public health service medical officer Dr Michael Butchard said there is often an increase in hospital admissions for respiratory infections and other illnesses in winter.

“During winter respiratory infections spread easily as people spend more time indoors.

“Vaccination against flu is your first line of defence against illness this winter.

“Although there's still a chance you might get the flu, vaccination reduces both the risk of passing it on to others as well as the severity of the illness, should you get infected." 

Michael said getting immunised helps to stop the spread of flu around the community and protects those more likely to experience severe illness from the flu.

Many people in Central are eligible for a free flu vaccination, including over 65s, those with long-term medical and long-term mental health conditions.

Check the Phamac free flu vaccine criteria here to find out more.

Weekly hospital admission rates with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) activity. Blue is the current year, and the grey line is 2023. PHOTO: Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR) respiratory illness dashboard  

HNZ website said flu symptoms start suddenly and can include fever or chills, muscle aches, headache, runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat and upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhoea.

The flu (influenza) is a virus and can keep you in bed for a week or more, or you can get very sick, even if you are usually healthy and fit. 

HealthCentral, who operate a new urgent care clinic in Alexandra, were approached for comment, but missed The Central App’s publishing deadline. 

Auckland metropolitan area has also experienced Influenza A outbreaks this winter. Read more in Radio New Zealand’s article: ‘Influenza A: What is it, how serious is it and how long does it last?’

Find HNZ information on the flu and the flu vaccine here.

If you are ever feeling worried about your health and wellbeing, or are concerned about someone, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.  If you can’t access a doctor call Healthline on 0800 611 116 anytime for health advice and information about what to do next.

Read more: HealthCentral leading the way with HCM status

Read more: Free flu jabs for some Māori and Pasifika residents

Read more: Can vitamin C really help prevent winter colds and flu?

Find contact information for Central GPs under medical centres listings.