Young children still hit hard by flu-like illnesses, even as general hospitalisation rates drop
While general hospital admission rates for respiratory infections are declining in New Zealand, children under five remain at high risk. Health experts are urging parents to vaccinate young children, noting that many have not yet been exposed to the flu.
Why it matters
The data highlights a specific public health vulnerability in young children, necessitating targeted vaccination campaigns to prevent severe complications.
Young children are still being hit hard by respiratory illnesses even as hospitalisation rates come down for the rest of the general population.
In Auckland, there were 14 hospital admissions for severe acute respiratory infection [SARI] per 100,000 people on 6 September compared with 16 on 30 September, according to PHF Science data.
But for children under five, hospitalisation rates were still peaking , hitting 85 admissions per 100,000 people on 6 September.
Are you a nurse, doctor or paramedic working on the front lines? New Zealand's health system is responding to its highest levels of demand in recent years, with patient levels above historic winter levels, long wait times, along with bed and staffing shortages. We want to hear from those who are in the thick of it. If you have a story to share, email iwitness@rnz.co.nz - anonymity can be offered.
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