Te Marae Ora (TMO), Ministry of Health is advising the public to stay warm and stay hydrated.

Secretary of Health Bob Williams, though confirming that there has not been any flu / influenza cases reported in the Cook Islands, says most cases reported are those of common colds.

Williams said so far there have been no trends showing in regards to the cold.

With Rarotonga’s temperature being 22 degrees Celsius, Williams has advised people: “Say warm, stay hydrated by drinking heaps of water/nu.   Visit the Community Health Clinics or book an appointment at the Tupapa Primary Health Care Centre if you’re not well.”

In an earlier report, director of Hospital Health Services, Doctor Yin Yin May,said 67 influenza-like illnesses were reported to TMO in March.

But it was confirmed there have been five cases of influenza to date since January 1, 2023.

Dr May said influenza vaccines for 2023 will be in the country on June 5 and Public Health will be providing vaccination to the public as per TMO eligibility criteria.

She said the last week of April or May is usually when TMO receives influenza vaccines from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Dr May said there were no concerns at this stage and staff were monitoring the situation daily.