RSV outbreak: Virus hitting Kiwi kids
Hospitals around New Zealand have been strained this week by the growing number of babies and children with RSV symptoms.
Christchurch Hospital has been forced to treat all patients as being potentially infected with Covid-19 as the symptoms are similar.
One Canterbury toddler, Meah Radford, was fine on Friday, but four days was in hospital in a life-threatening condition.
Mum Brittany Beddoes says it was the "scariest thing" she had ever experienced.
Click here to read more about Meah's experience and about the RSV outbreak.
What is RSV?
- A common respiratory illness caused by a virus
-Typically mild with symptoms similar to the common cold
-Can be severe in infants and vulnerable adults who can suffer fever, severe cough and difficulty breathing
-Parents are advised to call Healthline if concerned on 0800 611 116
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.