Flu season passes peak - but watch out for a second wave
New Zealand's flu season has passed its peak, with hospitalizations for flu-like illnesses dropping significantly, especially among children under five. However, health experts warn of a potential second wave or resurgence of winter illnesses, possibly driven by influenza B or another cold spell.
Why it matters
This information is crucial for public health planning and individual preventative measures, as it indicates a shift in the flu season's trajectory while cautioning against complacency regarding ongoing health risks.
General practitioners still advise those who haven't been vaccinated to take this opportunity. Photo / RNZ, Nate McKinnon
Many doctors are breathing a sigh of relief as the flu season passes its peak – but there is a warning of a sting in its tail.
Hospitalisations from flu-like illnesses have dropped sharply in latest figures – to about 10 in 100,000.
Children under age 5 have fallen for the first time since August 2.
College of General Practitioners clinical lead Luke Bradford said GPs had also noticed a big drop-off in the community.
After a mountain of cases this year, there was now a level of herd immunity from both vaccinations and people who had the virus, he said.
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