Flu Flying High
Influenza is all around us and affecting our lives more than some may realise.
It has been said that the flu is more dangerous/damaging/ easier to transmit than the Omicron variant of Covid 19.
The flu jab is available in NZ and is usually highly effective in preventing people from getting the flu or passing it on. But it is currently not compulsory though is free to people over a certain age or people with certain health conditions and involved in certain professions.
One of the current issues is that many people connected with DHBs in NZ ( nurses, doctors etc) are not getting the flu jab. In the Wellington region overall the number of such people not vaccinated against the flu is over 40%. The main reason given for not getting a simple, safe (to a very high degree) and lightening quick jab that has been around for over 20 years, is TIME.
Unvaccinated medical personnel not only are subject to getting influenza but they can pass the flu onto patients whose health is already compromised. And the other aspect is that the medical profession is critically short of staff and a bout of influenza will compound the shortages with flu ridden absentees from the workforce.
So should time for a jab be made available for the health profession? Should time and a jab be mandated like Covid vaccinations were?
Poll: How important is the ability to book a doctor’s appointment online?
Hi Neighbours
Here at The Doctors we would love to hear how you prefer to book your doctor’s appointments. With busy schedules, different people find different methods easier.
For some, online booking is very convenient, you can make an appointment anytime without needing to wait on the phone. Others still prefer calling the clinic and speaking to a real person, especially if they have specific questions about their visit.
Your feedback helps us understand what works best for our patients and how we can improve access to care.
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37.8% I prefer booking online whenever possible
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21.4% Online booking is helpful but not essential
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36.7% I prefer calling the clinic
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4.1% I didn’t know online booking was available
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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31.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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67.6% No, I enjoy it
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?
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76.3% Inside!
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23.7% On top!
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