In what is being described as the worst flu season since the COVID-19 pandemic, a nurse from the Lower Hutt community has tragically passed away from flu-like symptoms. Her husband is currently in critical condition at the hospital, leaving their two young children without both parents at home.
The story, shared widely on Facebook, has sparked numerous comments from New Zealanders recounting their own harrowing experiences with the flu. One commenter, Adele, shared, “It is influenza A. It is terrible. I had it recently, was in the hospital for two days, and haven’t been that sick in a long time. Heart goes out to her family.”
Suzzanne expressed her heartfelt condolences, saying, “That’s sad and heartbreaking for the husband and the two young children, as well as her parents, family, and friends. My condolences to them all. RIP beautiful lady.”
Another commenter, Penny, recounted her own battle with the flu: “So very sad. Deepest condolences to the family and friends. Prayers for the dad to recover. My son and I hadn’t had our flu vaccine early this year. We got the flu five weeks ago and were very sick for over a week. I ended up going to the doctor with a temperature of 39.8°C and a very rattly chest. I’m still recovering. The flu vaccine protects against four flu strains, and being healthy doesn’t protect you.”
Karen shared her experience from 2017, saying, “Influenza A is vicious. I felt like I was going to die with horrendous fevers and a dangerously high heart rate. I was so weak I couldn’t walk properly or get dressed. It hit hard and fast and took ages to recover. Deepest sympathies to this family.”
Jayne expressed concern for the deceased nurse, noting, “As a nurse, she would have been fully vaccinated. It’s scary that this is still happening in New Zealand. Hope the dad pulls through.”
Jackie added, “I know someone who was diagnosed with bronchitis, wasn’t getting better, went to another doctor, and found out it was pneumonia. They got taken to the hospital.”
Trudi, still recovering after five weeks, shared, “I am just getting over Influenza A and pneumonia. It hit me fast and furious. Week five now and I’m still fighting it. Sending prayers to the dad for a speedy recovery and hugs to the boys.”
Maria, the nurse, was 53 years old when she died at Hutt Hospital on 21 July. Friends reported to the NZHerald that she was fit and very healthy.
This flu season has been particularly severe in New Zealand, with many people experiencing prolonged symptoms lasting at least two weeks. July, typically the coldest month in New Zealand with temperatures ranging from 1.5–15.5°C (35–60°F), has been noted as the coldest since before the COVID-19 lockdowns, according to many residents.
