Respiratory illness and fevers are on the rise, according to health officials, who urged the public to safeguard their health.

The Health Ministry’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit reported an increase in cases of Covid-19, the common cold, strep throat, RSV and influenza, with flu cases “significantly above normal for this time of the year”.

The ESU called on the community to get vaccinated against the seasonal flu, either through their physicians or through the government clinic on Victoria Street in Hamilton.

Other measures advised were avoiding close contact with anyone showing illness, staying home if unwell, hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and avoiding touching of the face, particularly with unwashed hands.

Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and tiredness.

Wearing a mask can reduce the transmission of illnesses, along with disinfecting frequently touched surfaces — especially if anyone in a household is unwell.

The community was also advised to prioritise overall health, including getting enough sleep, staying physically active, managing stress, staying hydrated and eating nutritious food.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said it was “crucial” to get medical advice in the event of flu symptoms, especially for high-risk people, such as those 65 and above, pregnant women, young children and anyone with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

She added: “Early medical consultation is particularly important if symptoms are severe.”

Updates are available from the ESU via the government website’s health information portal.