Spring health reminder as allergy season begins
Published: 22 September 2026
Spring health reminder as allergy season begins
As Aoteaora New Zealand welcomes spring, Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand is reminding people that many winter illnesses are still circulating in our communities, as the warmer weather brings its own seasonal health challenges.
To help people stay well this spring, Health NZ has released a podcast and YouTube episode exploring common spring illnesses and allergies, how to recognise symptoms, and practical steps people can take to protect their health and wellbeing. The episode includes advice from paediatrician Dr Greg Williams on common illnesses and conditions that tend to flare up during spring.
Dr Williams says spring can affect people in different ways.
"For some people it's hay fever, for others it's asthma or skin allergies. Children can be particularly affected as they spend more time outdoors during spring and may be experiencing seasonal allergies for the first time.
"Knowing what triggers symptoms and how to manage them can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing over the coming months, and also getting familiar with your children’s symptoms is helpful too."
Spring often brings an increase in pollen, which can trigger hay fever symptoms and worsen asthma. At the same time, illnesses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), sinus infections and strep throat can continue circulating well beyond winter.
Many spring illnesses share similar symptoms, making it difficult to know whether a runny nose, cough or congestion is caused by allergies or an infection. If symptoms are severe, persistent or causing concern, people should seek advice from a pharmacist, doctor or other healthcare professional.
Simple measures such as keeping homes warm and dry, improving ventilation, reducing dust and mould, and staying up to date with recommended immunisations can help people and whānau stay well during the change of season.