October 2021 Newsletter | ||
 | Health literacy monthOctober is health literacy month. If you and your whānau are looking for free, plain language health resources, the Health Navigator NZ website is the place to go. | |
 | COVID-19 and pregnancyBeing pregnant (hapū) during the COVID-19 pandemic has made many people anxious about their own health and that of their unborn or newborn baby. | |
| Diabetes – type 2 medicationsWhen used with a healthy diet and exercise, diabetes medicine can effectively lower your blood glucose levels. If you are Māori and Pasifika, it is now easier for you to access two new diabetes medicines. | |
 | Do you have a fear of needles and injections?A fear of needles and injections is quite common. Here are some tips to help you manage your fear. | |
Top tips for wellbeing
 | Do you need an annual health check-up?While some people have annual health check-ups, not everyone needs a check-up every year. Find out when you should visit your healthcare provider. |
 | Suffering from maskne?Wearing a face mask reduces the risk of catching COVID-19 and spreading it to others but wearing a mask can cause skin problems. Here are some tips on how to prevent maskne and how to avoid rash, itch and dermatitis. |
Understanding medicines
 | Empagliflozin FAQsStarting a new medicine can be worrying but knowing what to expect and being prepared can help. If you have been prescribed empagliflozin to treat your type 2 diabetes, read helpful answers to common questions about this medicine. |
 | Blood pressure medicinesTreating high blood pressure reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and eye damage. Find out more about blood pressure medicines, tips on how to take your medicine and common side effects. |
 | COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine – how does it work?These videos from the Immunisation Advisory Centre explain how the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine works. Videos are available in English, te reo Māori and Samoan. |