The flu season is digging its heels in, with the recent school holidays suspected of contributing to the latest spike in cases.
The spread of influenza is not due to settle down until September. Photo: 123RF
In the latest weekly snapshot compiled by scientists, 319 people went to the doctor with an influenza-like illness.
That is 135 more than the week before.
The spread is not due to settle down until September.
Auckland GP Nikki Turner said surveillance of the flu showed it was a standard winter peak and although it was not a mild season, it was too early to tell how bad it would get.
Information compiled by Environmental Science and Research shows the virus is hitting the hardest on the East Coast, the Whanganui area and South Canterbury.
Health Minister Jonathan Coleman said last month that free access to the influenza vaccine for those most at risk would be extended from the end of July to 31 August.