Job well done by northern health and QAS staff

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg and Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young have praised Queensland Health and Ambulance staff for their commitment and dedication to local communities during Cyclone Ita.

Visiting Cairns Hospital today, Mr Springborg and Dr Young said the teamwork and efficiency of the state-wide health and ambulance network was on show during times of emergency and they lauded the efforts of personnel in the firing line of Cyclone Ita at its peak.

“Queenslanders receive the best possible support from all our emergency services, but as Health Minister I pay particular thanks to our Hospital and Health Services and our QAS personnel,” Mr Springborg said.

“As Cyclone Ita approached, staff at health and ambulance facilities across the State put the needs of their communities above their own. I thank them for their dedication and the support they provide in situations such as this.”

Mr Springborg said the dedicated work of health and QAS staff was evident all along the North and Central Queensland coastline, as they prepared for and responded to the oncoming gale force winds and subsequent flood emergencies.

‘‘As we now move into the recovery phase, our staff have continued to go above and beyond the call of duty for their communities,’’ he said.

‘‘All Queenslanders can be proud of the performance of their local health and ambulance services throughout this emergency and the ongoing dedication of the staff.’’

With the recovery now in full swing, Mr Springborg said it was important people continued to focus on keeping themselves and their families safe.

‘‘As the clean-up begins, it’s important to practice simple safety habits,’’ he said.

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Jeannette Young, said that during the clean-up, people should take care and make their health a priority.

‘‘There are some areas still without power, so food safety should be paramount,” Dr Young said.
‘‘If people have any doubts about their food, throw it out!
‘‘Carbon monoxide poisoning is also a risk for people in the vicinity of petrol-powered generators or pumps, when operated in an enclosed area.
‘‘Make sure small engines are located in well-ventilated areas and if possible, keep them outside.’’
Dr Young said people should remember that flood waters increase the risk of leptospirosis, melioidosis, dengue fever and diarrhoeal diseases.
“Do not swim in floodwater and ensure that you and your children keep away from stormwater drains and creeks,’’ Dr Young said.
“Wear solid boots or shoes when walking through shallow surface water as it may be contaminated.
“Wear gloves and covered shoes when cleaning up in flood-affected areas and treat any cuts immediately with antiseptic. Apply a protective dressing to the wound and see a doctor if injuries are serious.’’
• For more information, head to www.health.qld.gov.au/disaster/storms

• The Department of Communities has established a 1800 assistance service for members of the public seeking help – the number to call is 1800 17 33 49.

(ENDS) 15 April 2014

Quick food safety tips:
• do not open your fridge or freezer door unnecessarily
• refrigerated food will spoil sooner than frozen food, so eat any perishable foods in your fridge first, such as dairy products and meat
• if your power has been cut and you have not kept your freezer stocked with ice, food will start to spoil and should be eaten immediately. What can't be eaten should be thrown out
• throw out any food that has started to spoil, especially if it smells bad, tastes strange or is slimy.
Reduce your risk of injury:
• don’t try and do it too quickly, and get assistance if the job is too big
• look out for snakes and spiders, which may have moved to drier ground
• be careful when operating chainsaws and other vegetation-clearing equipment – wear protective clothing and keep children and pets away
• do not handle wet electrical equipment
• even in cloudy conditions, protect yourself from the sun and ensure you drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Reduce your risk of disease:
• avoid unnecessary contact with mud and dirt 
• wear boots and gloves when cleaning up
• clean cuts and scratches with salty water or antiseptic and apply a waterproof dressing;  if the skin around cuts becomes red or sore, see your doctor
• wash your hands thoroughly before eating or smoking
• shower thoroughly with soap at the end of each day
• clean and disinfect any household surfaces which have come into contact with floodwater
• throw out any flood-damaged food.

Media contact: Media Contact: Cameron Thompson 0407-585230