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Wednesday 12 June 2024 Wenerei 12 Hune 2024
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Hospital hit by respiratory virus rise PAULA HULBURT Wairau Hospital is almost at capacity following a rise in respiratory infections across the region. The Blenheim based Hospital has seen hike in the number of patients being admitted with flu and COVID-19. Wairau Hospital provides approximately 65 beds for Marlborough patients. Interim Chief Medical Officer at Health New Zealand Te Whatu
Ora Dr Steve Low says admissions are impacted at 96 per cent occupancy. “At present, the level continues to increase. “Both Wairau and Nelson Hospitals have seen an increase in presentations due to respiratory illness, including COVID-19 and the flu in recent weeks.” Latest figures from Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora on Friday show Nelson and Marlborough had 153 new cases of COVID-19.
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Nelson has been hit especially hard with 28 COVID patients in isolation, which is leading to a disruption in patient flow through the Emergency Department. There are two patients in isolation at Wairau Hospital but Dr Low says cases of other respiratory illnesses, including flu are higher at Wairau. “At this time of year, there is often an increase in hospital admissions for respiratory infections and other illnesses due to the fact that
they spread easily as people spend more time indoors.” Health NZ is strongly recommending people take precautions to prevent getting infected with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses. Keeping up to date with vaccinations such as COVID-19, influenza, and pertussis vaccines, collecting prescriptions early and avoiding going to work or school if sick can all help stop the spread of illness, Dr Low says.
“Winter is something we prepare for every year as a health system. “We know it will be busier than usual and if people need us, we are ready to respond as are our colleagues right across the sector.” Care and advice can be accessed in several ways, such as calling Healthline on 0800 611 116, or contacting a doctor, healthcare provider or pharmacy. For emergencies, people should call 111.
Phill Johnson, shown with his class, will perform as American country musician and songwriter Zach Bryan. Photo: Paula Hulburt
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