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Download AudioInfluenza is sweeping through South Auckland’s elderly population.
Andrew Connolly, the chief medical officer for Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau, says Middlemore Hospital has seen a record number of patients over the past few weeks presenting with respiratory illnesses including influenza A.
That’s putting a strain on emergency department and non surgical medical departments.
Influenza A is characterised by a barking cough that lingers for a long time.
“Routine, regular stuff such as paracetamol and lozenges that soothe the throat. If it really is goign on for some time then trying to see your GP or down to the chemist for an assessment is wise. If people are really feeling unwell so you are worried someone in the whanau is deteriorating, the emergency department is there if necessary,” Dr Connolly says.
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