Winter virus update

Upper Hutt Health Centre doctors and nurses have seen an increase in the number of patients with the most recent respiratory viruses.

Symptoms include a high temperature, running or blocked nose, sore throat, cough and loss of appetite. Some children are also developing an upset tummy, going off their food and in some cases, developing a viral rash which shows as faint pink spots.

If you have been feeling unwell and think you may be affected by this virus, it is important that you get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluid. If necessary you can take paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed for fever or pain.

Children should be encouraged to drink water regularly and paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used as directed to bring a high temperature down or soothe other symptoms.

These viruses typically last 7-10 days and although you may feel unwell, they are generally self-limiting and do not require further medical intervention.

Should I book in the see the doctor?

If you are generally fit and healthy, you should be able to recover on your own through rest, lots of fluid and over the counter medication. However, smokers or people with underlying heart or respiratory conditions are more likely to have complications and should see doctor or nurse if they develop severe symptoms

If you become short of breath, severely dehydrated or develop more severe symptoms, call us immediately to speak to a doctor or nurse.