When the temperature drops, we all run a higher risk of health problems and injuries related to the weather, so it’s important to take extra precautions at this time of year.
We have spoken to some of our health leaders to find out what we need to do to keep well in the colder months and where you and your whaanau can go to get support and advice.
Kate Dowson, General Manager for Primary Care, says that people often think there's going to be a long wait to see their GP so they don't call them.
“While some GPs are really busy for non-urgent appointments, they will see people if it's urgent, so please ring them, and they’ll do everything they can to fit you in.
“If they can’t see you, they’ll tell you where to go, so it’s worth calling.”
You can also call Healthline for free on 0800 611 116 anytime 24 hours a day 7 days a week. They can give you trusted health advice, treatment, and information about what to do next. You can also choose to speak with a Maaori clinician if you’re calling between 8am - 6pm.
Dr Campbell Brebner, Chief Medical Advisor for Primary Care, says “our health system is under the pump at the moment because of the legacy of COVID and the backlog of preventative work that needs to be done as well.”
So, what can we do to try to keep well?
“Eating well, getting exercise and getting enough sleep are actually really important to support your immune system and fight off infections.” (See our stay well tips on the next page).
“If you have a long-term health condition, go to see your GP to make sure you have a plan in place for managing it, and have all the medication you need close by.
“For example, if you have asthma, know what you need to do in terms of increasing your preventative medication, and escalating the treatment if required so that you don’t end up in hospital.”
Dr Brebner says that vaccination is also a very really important part of looking after yourself and your whaanau.
“If you’re six months past your last booster or COVID infection, there is a new booster available for you. The thing that’s important about this one is that it’s a bivalent vaccine and it’s more effective against the new variants than the original vaccine.
“The flu vaccine is also important as it is deliberately targeted to address the strains we’re most likely to get here.”
This year the flu vaccine is free for children from 6-12 years, pacific people and anyone over 65 years with a long-term health condition.
“Many people would also benefit from a whooping cough booster, but certainly pregnant people should definitely get their boosters in the second trimester of their pregnancy.”
Extra tips for staying well over winter
Vitamin D:
This is really important for your immune system. If you don’t get a lot of sunshine or you have darker skin, then it may well be worth getting Vitamin D supplements.
Have a plan:
If you have a long-term condition, think about how you’ll manage it e.g see your GP early and make a plan.
Drink water:
Staying hydrated is really important, water is the best choice.
Get help early:
If you’re starting to feel unwell, call Healthline or talk to your pharmacist for some advice.
Got a fever:
Take Panadol and stay hydrated. Fever itself isn’t a worry but if you have long-term health conditions get advice early from Healthline, your pharmacy or GP.