June 21, 2024
Simple steps can deter winter ills
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The Health Ministry’s deputy director Māori, John Whaanga, says prevention is better than cure in addressing winter ills.
There are high levels of influenza about, as well as almost 5000 new cases of Covid and 3000 reinfections reported last week.
Mr Whaanga says avoid visiting elderly relatives if you feel unwell.
“The big one is if you’re māuiui, stay home. If you need to be wearing a mask, wear one. Wash your hands, cover your mouth. Immunisaiton remains a big way to keep ourselves safe and looking after ourselves and keeping ourselves safe,” he says.
Immunisation rates for Māori have fallen to around 65 percent and need to be much higher to protect whanau and communities.