Traditional winter illnesses are circulating in the community are putting significant pressure on all parts of the health system.

Health services have been planning for a challenging winter, says a statement from the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry says they are working regionally to manage capacity and demand, prioritise urgent care and deliver as much planned care as possible.

'It helps our health services if everyone does their bit to help us get through winter.

'The best thing New Zealanders can do to ensure they and their families don't end up in hospital is to be up-to-date with their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations and boosters.

'That's why the Government this week announced access to free flu vaccines had been widened to an additional 800,000 New Zealanders and second Covid-19 boosters will be available for older New Zealanders.”

The Ministry wants to remind people to keep up good public health habits; wear a mask; physically distance; practise good hand hygiene; and don't go out if you are unwell but get tested and self-report the result – whether positive or negative – on My Covid Record.

It says this helps it to understand the spread of Covid-19 and where to direct public health resources.

'We also urge whānau to develop a winter plan so family members know what to do if they become unwell.

'And to get a Winter Wellness Kit together which might include painkillers, a thermometer, tissues, cold and flu medications, enough food and household items for a few days, and a good stock of the regular medicines you or your whanau will need.

'The Ministry would like to acknowledge the hard work of health workers across the country, particularly at this time of significant strain on the system. The work you do is important and valued.

'We urge all New Zealanders, if they do face delays in accessing health services, to be patient and kind to their local health workers. Often delays are due to health professionals treating someone more seriously ill first.”