Winter ills are taking their toll on Wanganui schoolchildren - and Keith Street School has been particularly hard hit, with more than 40 children absent this week.
"Some children were away last week with bad colds or sore throats," said principal Linda Ireton. "I don't know if any had flu or if they have seen their doctor."
"This week there has been a tummy bug going around and children suddenly become very pale and feel nauseous."
Other Wanganui schools have not been as hard hit, with Aranui and Castlecliff schools reporting expected numbers of absences for the time of year, while Aramoho has had full attendance this week.
However, Fordell School principal Phil Walker said students had been off with different illnesses. "Yes, bugs everywhere - either upset tummies or a horrible cough that requires medication.
"We have plenty with both of these at the moment."
Castlecliff, Te Oranganui and Aramoho health centres all reported they had been very busy with patients of all ages but were not able to provide numbers.
Since July 1 this year, parents are not charged to take their children who are under 13 to the doctor and Aranui principal Maryann Roberts said it should have a positive effect on children's health this winter.
"It is good to be able to discuss children's illness with parents and not worry about the effect that the cost might have on their budget," she said.
In Bulls, Dr Ken Young said it was certainly the season for all the winter ills.
"There has been a bit more influenza around this winter than some previous years. The cold snaps we have had have also contributed to the ills.
"There certainly have been a lot of respiratory illnesses across the population."