Whether you like the weather or not, it is getting colder.
And with the colder months comes an increase to the coughs and colds, otherwise known as “flu season”.
Traditionally this runs from June to September, however, as the media have reported, we have seen an increase in the number of cases, much earlier than usual, this year.
Influenza, more referred to as ‘the flu’, is a respiratory illness caused by contagious viruses, that may vary in their strains and affects. While many use the terms interchangeably, the flu is considered to be much more severe than the common cold, although symptoms can be quite similar. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but generally present with fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and fatigue. Younger people may also experience vomiting and/or loose stools.
Since COVID times we have seen the over-the-counter testing kits become more advanced and widely available. These now include testing for several respiratory related illnesses, an easy and convenient way to confirm symptoms and see what you are dealing with. With plenty of rest, fluids and the correct use of medications where applicable, you should find yourself feeling better very soon. As always, you should seek medical advice or see your GP if symptoms worsen and/or persist, especially if you are in and ‘at risk’ category (e.g. Asthmatic).
Your best defence against a severe case of the flu is to get your annual Influenza Vaccination (flu shot). Speak to your GP about any concerns you have or how to get your Flu Shot, if you have not already.
During May, we celebrate International Nurses Day. This falls on the 12 May each year, which coincides with the birthday of Florence Nightingale. Nurses are certainly at the heart of health care, and this day allows us all to acknowledge the amazing, diligent, tireless and often unthanked job they do.
A BIG thank you to all the awesome Nurses out there, we appreciate you.
The month of May also marks National Families Week, National Volunteer Week and National Reconciliation Week, celebrating important, selfless and amazing people, as well as acknowledging the bonds of humanity and the power of change.
And let’s not forget our Mum’s
– Happy Mother’s Day!
Stay well, – Corinne G.
Make this your month for peak health moving forward and take firm steps to ensure a happier, healthier you. We have so much information and resources available, ready to assist on your health journey and create an even better version of you.
National Reconciliation Week – 27 May – 3 June 2025
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The dates for NRW remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June.
These dates commemorate two
significant milestones in the reconciliation journey; the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision
respectively.
For more details head to
www.reconciliation.org.au
National Volunteer Week– 19-25 May 2025
National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.
This special event provides an opportunity to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community and invites people not currently volunteering to give it a go.
Volunteering creates lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen
communities. Join us as we explore how giving to others fosters community
engagement, connection and belonging.
For further details
www.volunteeringaustralia.org
Lending A Hand to Thrive: Supporting Each Other
12-18 May 2025
National Families Week 2025 encourages a celebration of the commonalities and differences between your family and other families.
The aim of National Families Week is to not only celebrate the vital role that families play in Australian society, but to also reflect on the critical role that families play in teaching, supporting and nurturing children as they grow.
Refer to 
www.nfw.org.au for details
