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General News

3 July, 2024

Event season spreading illness across the North West

The regional health service wants people to get vaccinated.


North West Hospital and Health Service nurse Lea Scheltens delivers a whooping cough vaccination.
North West Hospital and Health Service nurse Lea Scheltens delivers a whooping cough vaccination.

North West Hospital and Health Service wants the community to get vaccinated and protect their loved ones from respiratory illnesses as a wave begins to spread over the region.

As the event season picks up, residents are attending work and school then appearing at community events alongside tourists who may be carrying respiratory pathogens, unknowingly spreading illnesses to vulnerable people in the community.

Anthony Bell, the executive director of medical services spoke to the importance of getting vaccinated to manage infections.

“It is important for parents to get their family vaccinated to protect themselves from Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs). These ARIs can cause severe infection in some people including babies 12 months and younger; especially if born premature, people with heart and lung disease, older adults, or anyone with a weak immune system,” Dr Bell said.

NWHHS infection, prevention and control nurse Lea Scheltens said the best way to avoid getting sick was to talk to your local pharmacy or health clinic about receiving vaccinations.

Washing your hands, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and staying home if unwell are other ways to protect yourself and others.

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