In 2020, changes were made to the New Zealand guidelines around how asthma in adults and teenagers should be treated.   It has been shown that for most people, (even those with mild or exercise induced asthma) that making a simple change in the type of inhaler and how and when you use it, may reduce asthma symptoms in day-to-day life.  This change can also reduce the risk of serious asthma episodes which is really exciting!

The new changes also make asthma treatment much simpler by using only one type of inhaler even when your asthma is playing up.

Please book an appointment to see one of our nurses or doctors to discuss how we can work together to improve your asthma symptoms.

The new cervical screening test is a game changer!

Cervical cancer is preventable. Regular cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself.

There are now two options for having your cervical screening test: a vaginal swab where you can self-test or a trained professional can assist you or, you can choose to have a cervical sample (what used to be called a smear test) taken by a healthcare provider.

Most people can choose to self-test.

The new HPV test is safe and accurate.

Cervical screening is for eligible wāhine, and people with a cervix aged 25 to 69.

Find out more at TimeToCervicalScreen.nz, call 0800 729 729 or kōrero to your nurse, doctor or hauora clinic.

Tamariki aged 6 months to 4 years who are immunocompromised or have multiple or complex health conditions are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

From 9 February a version of the paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine will be available for children aged 6 months to 4 years who are at higher risk of severe disease if they were to get COVID-19.

MHC will not be offering this vaccine, if your child is eligible, you will be able to book a vaccine by:

• calling Healthline on 0800 28 29 26
• visiting nz(external link).

Eligibility criteria for young children

The vaccine is available for children aged from 6 months to 4 years who have the following health conditions:

• chronic lung disease
• serious heart conditions such as congestive heart failure or congenital
• heart disease
• diabetes
• chronic kidney disease
• chronic neurological or neuromuscular disease such as cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome
• a weakened immune system or are on an immunosuppressive
• treatment such as chemotherapy
• severe haematological disorders
• a transplant in the last 24 months.

Children who are not in any of the high-risk categories are not eligible for the vaccine as they have a low likelihood of severe illness from COVID-19.

 Measles may be in Otago and Southland! Are you and your whānau immunised?

Measles is highly contagious and can make you very sick. If you have not had 2 vaccination shots against measles, contact your local GP to book an appt, check if there is a vaccination clinic at your community provider or visit your local pharmacy.

If you are not sure if you are covered, its best to get immunised. Check the factsheet for more information, or call Healthline for free on 0800 611 116 to check symptoms.

www.wellsouth.nz/assets/Uploads/Vaccinations/Meas              les-Factsheet.pdf