prioritise winter wellness

Damian says taking charge of keeping well will also help ease pressure on the wider health system.

“Hospitals, GPs, the ambulance sector and other community health providers continue to face ongoing prolonged increased demand for services, which are only expected to increase as the cold and u season takes hold.

“Our incredible health workforce is under pressure and limiting the spread of infection will make a real di erence in making sure that the health system can provide the right care, in the right place, to those that need it this winter.”

Have a plan

Damian says Hato Hone St John has initiatives in place to reduce pressure on the ambulance and wider health system and is working collaboratively with Te Whatu Ora to raise public awareness of the range of medical care options for common winter illnesses.

“While we’re taking steps to help the communities who need us this winter, it’s also important for whānau to have a plan in place for when there is sickness in the household.

“ inking about things like do you have people you can rely upon for support. Creating a winter wellness kete can help get you through.

“ is might include paracetamol and ibuprofen, a thermometer, tissues, cold and u medications, enough food and household items for a few days, and a good stock of the regular medicines you or your whānau will need.”

Damian says should you or your whānau become unwell, most people should be able to manage at home by resting, keeping up their uids and taking paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Warm home

Keeping your home warm and dry is also important for staying well. e Healthy Homes webpage has good tips and information about insulation funding through the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme.

“And don’t forget that winter can also a ect our moods and for some it can become quite debilitating – this is known as Seasonal A ective Disorder.

“For people a ected by recent weather events this year, your moods are probably already low, so make sure you seek help early if it’s getting all a bit too much.”

Get help online at: SPARX.org.nz or: depression.org.nz

If you need health advice, call Healthline for free 24/7 on: 0800 611116 to speak with a registered nurse or call your general practice.

If you’re struggling to breathe or it’s an emergency, call 111.