Public health measures we are all familiar with need to remain top of mind as Covid-19, influenza and other bugs circulate in Central this winter. 

SDHB reported 216 total active cases of Covid-19 in Central yesterday (Wednesday June 15). There were two additional deaths from Covid-19 in Southern and a total of 442 new cases in the region. 

Case map showing distribution of Covid-19 cases in the Southern region. PHOTO: SDHB

Southern District Health Board (SDHB) has called on the community to Safeguard, Sing Out, Shield, and Repeat this winter to help combat influenza, Covid-19, and other winter illnesses.

In a statement, SDHB medical officer of Health Susan Jack said it's important everyone continues to think about the steps they can take to protect themselves and their whānau.

“It’s time for us all to think about what we need to do to safeguard our health, sing out for help when we need it, shield ourselves from illness, and repeat those steps - as well as the ones we know so well from our fight against Covid-19.”

SDHB chief operating officer Hamish Brown said hot on the heels of Omicron we have already seen many people in the Southern region becoming very unwell with influenza, particularly in Dunedin.

“This winter is also our first in two years with New Zealand’s borders truly open, which means our natural immunity to viruses and other bugs has been weakened, and we’re likely to see increased pressure on our health system as a result,” he said.

Despite numbers of reported Covid-19 cases in Central decreasing, The Central App team has heard of many families catching Covid-19 and isolating at home, school staff being unwell, and sports teams and events being postponed or impacted.

Things to remember are: Wear your mask, wash your hands, get vaccinated against the flu, stay home if you’re sick, look after your families physical and mental health and ask for help if you need it - start with Healthline or your GP before heading to the emergency department.