Home and Away star Georgie Parker opens up about real-life health scare

 "I was floored by how much it impacted my family life and my ability to do my job.

Home and Away star Georgie Parker has opened up about a real-life health scare, issuing a warning about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The Roo Stewart actor spoke about her experience of having a respiratory illness, and the risks of RSV for older people.

According to the NHS website, RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds and is spread through the coughs and sneezes of someone with the virus. While infections usually get better by themselves, babies and older adults are at higher risk of more serious illness.

"I have had a respiratory illness [and] apart from being surprised by how ill I was, I was floored by how much it impacted my family life and my ability to do my job," Georgie explained in an Instagram post. "I wrongly thought because I rarely get ill, and that I'm fit and healthy, that I would be less at risk."

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The star noted that "natural changes" through aging make it more challenging to fight infections like RSV, meaning higher risk.

"I want to keep doing the things I love, I want to keep busy and want to keep working," the star continued.

So learning more about RSV has broadened my understanding of how to do just that, which is to talk to my GP, to talk to my pharmacist, so that I can make informed decisions about my future. So stay well and look after yourselves this winter."

In the comments, Georgie added: "If you’re 65 and over it’s really important you know your risk and become RSV wise by speaking with your GP or local Pharmacist. Have a great winter."

Followers shared praise in the comments, one writing: "What a powerful message to spread awareness about Georgie, thanks for sharing with us all."

Another added: "Oh Georgie, you are so beautiful, always looking out for others and bringing light into all that you do. Thank-you for sharing and sending you armfuls of love always xxx."

Georgie has played the role of Roo on Home and Away since 2010, with the character previously portrayed by Justine Clarke in the late 1980s.