High Country Times
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
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RAINBOW OVER MAIN STREET A spectacular double arc glows over Mansfield’s autumn trees and wet bitumen after a burst of rain last week. PHOTO: Guy Elliott, High Country Technology
Flu surges across shire Schools and health services report sharp rise in influenza, RSV and COVID cases THE 2025 flu season has well and truly begun in Mansfield Shire, with a noticeable surge in respiratory illnesses sending many children home unwell from school and childcare. Nicole Salmon, Mansfield Primary School principal said the first week of June saw almost 100 children away sick, representing close to a quarter of the school population. “We’ve weathered the storm, and most children and staff are back at school now,” she said.
However with the community at large experiencing a high number of illnesses, the primary school was prompted to reach out to all families to address the issue. “Most children are coming to school asymptomatic and developing symptoms rapidly throughout the day,” Ms Salmon said. “If a child becomes ill at school with these symptoms, we will contact the family and arrange for the collection of the child.” The Goulburn Valley Public Health Unit has confirmed there
have been rising cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 across the region, consistent with seasonal respiratory illness patterns. Central General Practice’s Dr Ben Nally said in speaking to colleagues and patients, the number of influenza cases in Mansfield has been significant. “I have had anecdotal reports of large numbers of school absences due to “flu-like” illnesses,” he said. “Unfortunately, this seems aligned with a real drop off in num-
bers of children being vaccinated for influenza. “We have also been seeing many cases of influenza at the hospital level.” Dr Nally said vaccination is still the best defence against these types of illnesses. “The influenza vaccine has a long history of being safe in all age groups,” he said. Symptoms of influenza (and many respiratory viruses) include fevers, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat, nasal
congestion and headaches. Some people may also present with gastro-type symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea. “To prevent the spread, the health department suggest hand hygiene, covering when coughing or sneezing, staying home if unwell and seeking medical attention,” Dr Nally said. “In addition to this, it is important to eat healthy food, drink plenty of fluids, getting outdoors and exercising while well.” ■ Continued page 2
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