One of South Australia's most medically vulnerable teenagers is urging people to stay home when they're unwell this winter, after a common cold sent him to emergency.
Fourteen-year-old Enzo Cornejo — an Adelaide Crows superfan — lives with progeria, a rare rapid-ageing condition that makes even mild infections dangerous.
He was hospitalised for five days after contracting rhinovirus.
"Basically, I wasn't able to breathe… and my heart was beating a bit fast," Enzo told 7NEWS. "But now it's fine."
For most people, rhinovirus is little more than an annoying cold. For Enzo, it's a serious threat.
His mum, Catherina Llontop, took no chances when she noticed his breathing change. "His breathing started to change. I said to him, let's go to emergency," she said.
Now back home and recovering, Enzo has a simple plea as winter illness season approaches. "If you ever feel sick, stay at home. But if you really need to go out, just wear a face mask," he said. "Because you keep others safe," his mother added.
So far this year, South Australia has recorded 1,800 influenza cases, with 229 hospitalisations. Health experts warn a spike is likely, mirroring the northern hemisphere's severe season driven by a fast-moving strain nicknamed "Super K."
Health Minister Blair Boyer says authorities are watching it closely. "We are watching it very, very closely… your vaccination will cover that, because work is done to cover new strains like Super K," he said.
