Listen Now: 
Download AudioBeing kind isn’t enough – mask up.
That’s the message from a south Auckland GP as influenza cases on top of lingering Covid numbers threaten the health system.
Matire Harwood, who runs a clinic at Papakura Marae, says the practice is inundated with flu cases.
Staff are trying not to get it but many have gone down, people are feeling burned out, and Middlemore’s emergency department is overwhelmed.
“I’d love to bring back that message about being kind to each other at this time but I don’t think it’s enough. We definitely need some support out there and if people can do what they can do, continue to mask as much as possible, please get the flu vaccine if you are eligible for it because it will reduce your risk of getting this flu and stop you becoming so unwell with it. Stay home if you are sick, keep your kids home if they are sick and just take care out there everybody,” Dr Harwood says.
RELATED NEWS
