Sore throats
Sore throats are usually caused by virus infections like colds or the flu. Having a sore throat is very common. The discomfort can range from a scratchy feeling to severe pain.
You may also have:
- painful, enlarged neck glands
- a cough
- blocked ears
- a slight fever (37.2 to 37.8°C)
- tiredness and headache
Self–care when you have a sore throat
If you have a viral sore throat, some of these things may help.
- drink more fluids. (Drinking through a straw may hurt less.)
- eat soft foods that are easy to swallow. Don't eat spicy, salty or acidic foods
- try cold fluids, ice blocks, or honey and lemon juice in hot water
- gargle with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 200ml water)
- suck on hard sweets or throat lozenges
- take pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (as directed by your health professional or pharmacist)
- breathe warm, humidified air
- if you feel hoarse or lose your voice, rest your throat by talking less until it improves
- get plenty of rest, consider taking a few days off lectures/work to reduce the spread of infection and to help your recovery
- always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough
- avoid close physical contact such as kissing, and don't share eating or drinking utensils (eg, cups or knives and forks)
- let your College CCL/Warden or flat mates/friends know you are unwell
When to see your doctor
Most viral sore throats last up to one week and you probably won't need to see a doctor. However, you should see your doctor if you get any of these symptoms (it is important to check for bacterial infections which are a risk for developing rheumatic fever)
- a sore throat that lasts more than a few days and getting worse
- difficulty swallowing saliva, fluids and soft food, difficulty breathing
- your tonsils are enlarged or coated
- swelling in your neck
- earache or joint pain.
- skin rash
- a temperature of 38.6°C or higher that lasts more than 2 days
- a headache that lasts several days
- if your lips, skin or nails look blue, or you're feeling confused, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible
Meningitis
Meningitis is a bacterial disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis. There are various groups of bacteria including groups A, B, C, Y and W.
- 1-2 people in 10 who survive have long term complications
- 1-2 people out of every 10 will die
Those most at risk are:
- adolescents and young adults aged between 15-19 years
- smokers
- those living in residential colleges and crowded accommodation
- binge drinking
- having another respiratory condition eg influenza
- having a condition affecting the immune system
- Māori and Pacific ethnicity
Symptoms of meningitis can develop suddenly and include:
- a high fever
- headache
- sleepiness
- confusion
- abdominal pain
- joint and muscle pains.
- a stiff neck
- dislike of bright lights
- vomiting
- a rash consisting of reddish-purple pin-prick spots or bruises that don't fade with pressure
What to do
- if you or your friend/ family are worried you are seriously ill, get medical attention straight away or call an ambulance by dialing 111
- say what the symptoms are
- you can also call Healthline free on 0800 611 116, 24 hours a day – even if you have already been seen by a health professional
- vaccination reduces the risk and is very effective – For more info www.immune.org.nz
NOTE: Meningitis ACWY vaccination is free for 13 to 25 year old residents in college accommodation
Useful contacts
- Student Health
Tel 0800 479 821
Open Mon–Fri 8:30- 5pm
Wed 9:45am start
Evenings 5pm to 8:30pm semester only - Healthline – nurse advice 24/7
Tel 0800 611 116 - Or go to
- Dunedin Urgent Doctor and Accident Centre – 18 Filleul Street 8am–10pm
- Emergency Department( emergencies only) Dunedin Hospital- Great King Street, Dunedin