Public urged to be vigilant against meningococcal disease
With the significant increase in Group W meningococcal disease in Northland the public are urged to boost their knowledge of the meningococcal disease to ensure those with possible symptoms seek swift medical attention.
“This MenW strain is associated with high mortality rates and can affect all age groups.
Northland has been the worst affected, with seven cases so far this year, sadly including three deaths,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr José M Ortega.
“It can be difficult to diagnose because it can look like other illnesses. It spreads through close intimate contact with other people. Those who live and sleep in the same house as someone with Meningococcal disease are most at risk.”
“The key message is "if your child or family member is sick take them to the doctor".
Meningococcal disease can progress very quickly and may initially appear as a flu-like illness.
If you notice any of the symptoms or have any other concerns, contact your doctor without delay – or call Healthline free on 0800 611 116 at any hour of the day or night, even if you have already been seen by a health professional.
Six tips for improving security around your home
1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.
2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.
3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.
4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.
5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.
6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property
Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.
Walking your dog or your dog walking you in Tikipunga
Here are two great places to take your pooch out and about in Tikipunga - Beasley Park and the Hatea River walk.
Beasley Park, Tikipunga
Beasley Park is a suburban park close to Beazley Crescent. It is a calm place to play off-leash with a good variety of shade, sun, slopes and flat spaces. It is a quiet neighbourhood park with an interesting central waterway to explore.
Hātea River Walk
The Hatea River walkway is a dog-friendly place for on-leash exploring, with a forested walkway passing through several parks and suburbs starting from Otuihau/Whangārei Falls in Tikipunga and leading all the way to the central city at Riverside (about 6 kilometres)
There are well-established pathways (your dog must stay on leash and stick to the paths). Expect lots of passing foot-traffic - including kids.
Take a picnic, a ball, or other park activities. You will need to take rubbish home with you.
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