Epidemiologist urges people to get jabbed as hospitals are overloaded

“Get your flu vaccine,” says University Of Otago Epidemiologist, Professor Michael Baker, as hospital wards in Auckland hit their highest occupancy rates since 2015.

Baker told Pacific Mornings' William Terite that viruses like influenza, RSV and Covid are spreading at the same time to create “a perfect storm”.

Baker urges people not to get complacent to the fact the viruses aren't going away, and to be more proactive by taking the available vaccines.

Airborne viruses like influenza and Covid share symptoms like runny nose, cough and fever, making it difficult for people to distinguish.

When in doubt self-isolate, says Baker.

“If you’re sick with a respiratory infection stay at home, you won't know what it is initially … you really want to stay at home for five days or longer till you’re feeling better”.

And when commuting to work or using public transport, wearing a mask will help prevent airborne viruses like Covid, Baker told Pacific Mornings.

“If you are on a bus for maybe several hours a week you could easily get infected, and the ventilation is poor in that environment. Now everyone should be wearing a mask when they're on a bus or a train.”

The peak cases for influenza might have happened last week says Baker, but Covid is more difficult to estimate, as new Covid sub-variants keep emerging, making it past the immune defences.

“We're seeing a big wave every five months and we're seeing new (what we call) sub-variants that are replacing ones that came before and they are good at getting past our immunity,” says Baker.

To get more information on vaccines or book an appointment contact the vaccination helpline on 0800 28 29 26 open from 8.30am - 5pm on weekdays except for public holidays.

If you are concerned about your health contact your GP, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 who are open 24/7.