Nelson Weekly
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wednesday 21 July 2021
Neon Cowboys hit scene Page 18
Page 21
Ngaire’s lasting legacy
RSV runs rampant in Nelson Kate Russell Reporter
kate@nelsonweekly.co.nz
Early childhood centres around Nelson are experiencing a sharp decline in attendance rates as winter illness, including the RSV
virus, tightens its grip on the region. There has been at least one confirmed case of RSV at a Nelson preschool, while others say they have had “huge” drops in children attending, whether it be due to sickness or a precaution from parents.
The RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common virus that affects all age groups but is especially severe for infants less than one-year-old, for older people, and people who are immunocompromised. It is very infectious and can easily pass from person to person
through coughing and sneezing. According to figures from Nelson Marlborough Health (NMH), 128 children presented to ED with respiratory symptoms many of which are caused by viruses including RSV - between July 8 - 18. Out of this number, 23 were admitted to hospital.
Dr Nick Baker, chief medical officer for NMH, says while an increase in respiratory illness caused by viruses is normal for this time of year, these numbers represent a “substantial increase”. “Normally our community has a
see page 2
From near death to new life stoke man John Masters celebrated his 76th birthday last week not with champagne and cake, but with a 102km cycle. It was the 477th straight day John has spent on his bike, racking up over 13000km. FULL sTORY page 22.
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