Winter is Coming

With the change of seasons, we're all starting to get coughs and sniffles - and the flu.
Around one in four New Zealanders are infected with influenza each year. The flu can be a serious illness that is sometimes fatal if you are elderly or have an ongoing medical condition. It can also make an existing medical condition, such as asthma or COPD, a lot worse.

Getting immunised early before the influenza season starts is the best way to prevent infection.

Influenza vaccination is FREE in New Zealand for people who are most at risk, including:

- Anyone over 65
- Anyone aged 6 months to 65 years with chronic health problems

Ask your health practice nurses if you qualify today.

DRC Support Workers Upskill

Most people know that Disabilities Resource Centre have caring, professional staff in many homes across the Bay of Plenty.

What you may not realize is that all of our Support Workers at attend regular training sessions to increase their knowledge and skills, often gaining NZQA qualifications as well.

This week our Opotiki Learners spent time studying how to maintain good hygiene practices, and manage infection control.

Cyclone Gita

Cyclone Gita is due to hit New Zealand on Monday afternoon and DRCT is planning ahead in case things get rough. Slips, rapidly rising rivers and power outages can be serious for vulnerable community members. We will post updates on Monday if it looks like Bay of Plenty residents will be affected. 

If you are worried about yourself, your whanau or neighbours, take some time now to prepare with Civil Defence:

http://bopcivildefence.govt.nz/be-prepared/disabilities/

Cyclone Gita spin-off to hit Aotearoa

The MetService has warned New Zealanders should prepare for the impact of Cyclone Gita next week.

The DRCT Great Tomato Challenge

Last week our Post Polio Support Field Officer Tom Armstrong took out the Great Tomato Challenge with the biggest tomato, after years of planning and special seed collecting.

Entries were compared and winners announced at the first Post Polio Support meeting of the year, with Chairperson Marie Collins taking an honourable mention.

The Post Polio Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month, with the March meeting planned as a social occasion at the Red Barn in Thornton. They cover issues as diverse as medical interventions and gardening tips in an understanding environment.

Call Tom on 07 3071447 if you are experiencing the late and on-going effects of Poliomyelitis for more details about getting involved with Post Polio Support.