The number of people presenting symptoms of cold and respiratory flu in Rarotonga has increased, with Te Marae Ora advising people to keep warm this cold season.

Doctors from the Rarotonga Medical Centre say there has been an increase in cold and upper respiratory patients during this cold season.

Dr Nini Wynn and Dr Mareta Jacob say common cold/upper respiratory symptoms can present as fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, headache, and body aches. These symptoms can last up to three to seven days.

Dr Wynn advises people to seek medical advice if the symptoms worsen or if there is any shortness of breath/not breathing well, cough lasting a long time, or chest pain. For children, seek medical advice if they have a sore throat to prevent rheumatic fever.

Some medicines can help to ease symptoms, such as Panadol, ibuprofen, decongestants, antihistamines, lozenges, and cough medicines, but read the instructions carefully, she said.

Te Marae Ora (TMO) Ministry of Health Secretary Bob Williams said the ministry didn’t have the latest statistics on cold/flu patients, but flu symptoms are expected during the cold season.

Williams said people need to take good care of themselves, keep warm, and stay hydrated. If they are close to anyone with flu symptoms, it is best to keep a distance or wear a face mask.

“Anyone can get the flu anytime of the year,” Williams said.

In Rarotonga, the lowest minimum temperature for September was 14.5 degrees Celsius, recorded on Saturday, September 2, revealed the Cook Islands Meteorological Service.