April 02, 2026

#hauora: Health Warning as Winter Nears: Vulnerable Kiwis Urged to Get Vaccinated

Matthew Tukaki Posted On April 2, 2026

Health experts are urging people living with long-term lung and heart conditions to get their vaccinations up to date as Aotearoa heads into the colder months.

With autumn underway and a recent wave of COVID-19 already moving through communities, respiratory viruses are beginning to circulate earlier, raising concerns for those most at risk. For people with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, and cardiovascular disease, even common infections can quickly escalate into serious illness.

Health leaders say seasonal patterns show winter consistently brings a spike in respiratory infections, placing added strain on both individuals and the wider health system. For those already managing chronic conditions, the risks are significantly higher, with infections more likely to lead to hospitalisation or severe complications.

Vaccination is being highlighted as one of the most effective ways to reduce these risks. Ensuring protection against illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and RSV can help prevent severe outcomes and reduce pressure on healthcare services during peak winter demand.

Concerns are also being raised about the loss of key surveillance tools, including the FluTracking programme, which has been used since 2018 to monitor the spread of respiratory illnesses nationwide. The programme provided real-time data on influenza-like illness, helping health authorities anticipate outbreaks and respond accordingly.

Medical experts warn that without such monitoring, it may be more difficult to detect early signs of widespread illness, making preparation and prevention even more critical.

Respiratory infections do not only affect the lungs. For those with heart conditions, infections can place significant additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Increased inflammation, fever, and reduced oxygen levels can force the heart to work harder, raising the risk of complications such as heart failure or other cardiac events.

Health professionals are encouraging anyone living with respiratory or heart conditions to consult their healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations and to take steps now to prepare for the winter season.

As respiratory viruses begin to circulate, the message is clear – early action could make a critical difference in protecting vulnerable whānau and reducing the impact of illness in the months ahead.