International Day of People with a Disability is recognised each year on 3 December, the day the world celebrates the diversity of abilities.

This year Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Brain Injury Service held an event at Lennox Head Community Centre and have invited families and Carers to join them in an informative discussion on Life after a Brain Injury.

Karen Thompson, Community Rehabilitation Worker/Social Worker from the Brain Injury Service said they are delighted David Roland, a Forensic Psychologist who suffered a stroke six years ago accepted their offer to attend this important day.

“Dr Roland wrote an inspiring book entitled “How I Rescued my Brain” and will talk about his recovery journey and how he came to view his disability as a new beginning,” said Ms Thompson.

“Also joining the event is Professor Harry McConnell, Neuro Psychiatrist, a visionary who devotes his life to improving the quality of life for people with neuro-disability, who will be available to answer any questions from the audience.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity for families and carers of the Brain Injury Service to meet with others who have sustained a brain injury and share stories,” Ms Thompson said.

“International Day of People with Disability is a day to celebrate the many contributions people with disability make to our community.

“Getting involved in celebrations for this United Nations sanctioned day is a chance to challenge myths, improve awareness and take positive action to change inclusion and accessibility for people with disability.”

World AIDS Day (WAD) is observed worldwide on 1 December each year. World AIDS Day provides an important opportunity for everyone to remember those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS and to show support for people living with HIV.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) has joined various education, prevention as well testing and treatment programs across NSW to commemorate World AIDS Day.

The Byron Light House will be lit red again during 30 November – 2 December 2015 and Desert Migration, a new documentary about long term survivors of HIV/AIDS, will be screened at Lismore Star Court on 3 December and Byron Bay Pig House on 4 December.

Jenny Heslop, Manager of North Coast HIV and Related Programs (HARP) said, “This year’s World AIDS Day theme for NSW is ‘Ending HIV’ and focuses on the three key areas of Testing More, Treating Early and Prevention.

“Preventing HIV is still as important as ever. HIV testing leads to early detection and allows early uptake of treatment, which improves individual health and prevents transmission to others,” Ms Heslop said.

NSW has made significant progress in increasing HIV testing, treatment uptake among people with diagnosed HIV and strengthening prevention efforts, although it is estimated that around 14 per cent of people with HIV are undiagnosed.

More people are testing and accessing support services than ever before, but there’s still more work to be done to ensure timely diagnoses and enable access to early treatment uptake, highlighting the need for people to test and test more often. HIV testing is easier and more accessible than ever before. HIV can affect people of all ages, genders, races, and cultures.

“The most effective way for people to protect themselves and their partners is to consistently use condoms with sexual partners and have regular HIV and STI testing,” Ms Heslop said.

Early treatment is a key to an effective response to HIV. Most people receiving treatment in Australia have a similar life expectancy to people without HIV. In NSW, over 90% of people with HIV attending public HIV and sexual health clinics are now on treatment.

“World AIDS Day is also an opportunity to address the HIV-related stigma that still persists in Australia, undermining prevention, testing and treatment efforts and causing social isolation for many people living with HIV,” Ms Heslop explained.

For information on World AIDS Day and local events, visit: http://www.worldaidsday.org.au/

For information on HIV and HIV testing, visit: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/HIV_AIDS.aspx

Each year the Department of Primary Industries recognises rural women for their volunteer work in the community. These women are nominated as Hidden Treasures and listed in the Hidden Treasure’s Honour Roll.

The Honour Roll is an important initiative of the Department of Primary Industries’ Rural Women’s Network to formally recognise and thank the inspiring women volunteers across NSW rural and regional communities.

This year 106 women have been recognised in this important publication which celebrates the valuable volunteer work they do within NSW rural, regional and remote communities, seven of these women from the Northern NSW Local Health District.

Anne Bolan is one such volunteer, a committed Australian Red Cross member who regularly volunteers at Lismore Base Hospital (LBH) Renal Unit where she visits patients and gives them a foot massage during their Wednesday dialysis treatment.

Jane Ruane, Renal Unit Case Manager and Jane Milz, Area Manager, Renal Services nominated Anne Bolan, saying patients spend up to five hours three times a week having clinical and technical treatments in hospital and Anne’s massages are a highlight.

“Anne delivers her care with a bright smile and an energy that lights up the room. She and her fellow volunteer Janet have a marvellous way of providing care that really humanises the department, which makes patients feel special through the power of touch and communication,” said Jane Ruane.

“Anne has also had her own health battles and when she was having chemotherapy last year, she was too unwell to provide massage therapy but she would still visit the Renal Unit to engage in friendly conversation with patients,” Jane said.

“Her genuine kindness makes a real difference to patients’ quality of care and everyone is so glad she is well and volunteering in the unit again. The nursing team are very grateful for her contribution to patient care and think she is a very special Hidden Treasure,” said Jane.

The other women recognised for their contribution were:

Catherine Boyd, who has been volunteering for 73 years and is a life member of The Tweed Hospital United Hospital Auxiliary. Rae Cooper from the Byron Shire Health Services Community Action Group. Janine Slater, Byron Shire Health Services Community Action Group. Paul Starkey, Community representative on the Coraki Reference Group. Crole Keast and Dianne Collier for their contribution as members of the Mental Health Forum.

Each year Mental Health month is held in October with the aim of encouraging community participation to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote education to recognise the needs of people who live with a mental illness and those who care for them.

The 2015 theme is ‘Value Your Mind’ reminding us to nurture our mental wellbeing in the same way we maintain our physical and social health. The theme reminds each individual to ask themselves how they value their own mind and how they look after their mental health.

The Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Mental Health Service and FSG Australia, which stands for Freedom, Social Justice and Growth, as the lead agency for this year’s Value Your Mind Mental Health event.

FSG Australia are honoured to have the opportunity to be sponsored by North Coast Partners In Recovery to co-ordinate this year’s event at the Lismore City Hall on the 22nd October.

The partners include:

The Buttery B.well On Track Community Programs (OTCP) GROW Headspace Autism Spectrum Australia New Horizons and

Richard Buss, NNSWLHD Executive Director of Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol said “this theme is aimed at promoting acceptance and an understanding of the impact that being proud of who we are, can have on our wellbeing.

We are very pleased to have Bradley Foxlewin, Deputy Commissioner from the NSW Mental Health Commission, who has a lived experience of mental distress and accepted our invitation to be the guest speaker”.

Janelle Pacey from FSG Australia said “The official proceedings will take place from 10am with an opening address by Lismore Mayor Jenny Dowell.

Other guests and performances include Jenny Cargill-Strong Story Teller, Cape Byron Playback Theatre, Byron Youth Theatre, young songwriter of the year, Indigo Gebbett, The Cassettes 80’s themed flash mob dance crew, The Healing Voices Choir, FSG Intentional Peer Support P.E.A.R.L Model, Yoga and an art competition.

Food Stalls include The High Tea Ladies and The Lions Club is organizing the Sausage Sizzle”.

“The day is about celebrating our strengths and differences with the aim of encouraging all of us to consider our strengths and challenges and to Value Your Mind. It is also aimed at reassuring us to take the opportunity to support the people in our lives and celebrate their own individual qualities that make them unique,” said Richard Buss.

• Northern Rivers Social Development Council – Ability Links.

Each year Mental Health is highlighted during the month of October and one of the major difficulties people with mental illness have is finding suitable and affordable accommodation.

Therefore, Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), is joining forces with:

Family and Community Services-Housing OTCP Australian Department of Human Services Northern Rivers Social Development Council Connecting Home The North Coast Community Housing Company, and Rural Adversity Mental Health Project (ramhp)

Real Estate Agents from across the Northern Rivers have been invited to participate in a morning of skills training to equip them to more effectively support clients who may be experiencing mental health issues or other social disadvantage.

Warren Shaw, NNSWLHD Richmond-Clarence Mental Health Services Network Manager said the information session is intended to be interactive and provide the Real Estate Agents with the opportunity to ask questions from the presenters.

“The session – Trauma Informed Tenancy Management – explores practical and cost effective ways to help Real Estate Agents in managing complex tenancies and will assist in demystifying mental health concerns in the rental market,” Mr Shaw said.

 

“It can be difficult for Real Estate Agents to navigate situations where mental illness or other distress in tenants becomes apparent. Having a deeper understanding of trauma will greatly assist in achieving a positive outcome for both the landlords and tenants,” said Mr Shaw.

The National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (2007) data shows that over the previous12 months one in five Australians reported the existence of a mental disorder.

“This forum provides a good opportunity for Real Estate Agents and their teams to build on their skills with guidance from mental health and community development professionals,” Mr Shaw added.

Presenters were:

Andrew Gordon, R Gordon & Sons Property Agents Dr Mim Weber, NNSW Local Health District Steve Carrigg, Rural Adversity Mental Health Project Susan Buxton, FACS-Housing Cathy Serventy, NRSDC Connecting Home Eileen Bolt, Helping Hands Sarah Walker, OTCP

to draw attention on the difficulty people with a mental illness or other social disadvantage, have in obtaining suitable accommodation.

Regional and remote central NSW high school students will learn about the consequences of risky behaviour and how to prevent injuries when the Royal North Shore Hospital P.A.R.T.Y program regional roadshow returns next week.

The P.A.R.T.Y. (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) Program is an internationally recognised program that brings teenagers into the hospital to show them the graphic effects of risk-related behaviour.

Students from Casino and Kyogle High Schools visited the Casino Emergency Department on Tuesday 27 October and other clinical areas of their local hospital as part of the program as they follow the journey of a trauma patient. Local police, fire and rescue personnel, and paramedics are also involved in the program.

Students from Mullumbimby and Byron High Schools visited Byron Bay Emergency Department and students from Southern Cross High School visited Lismore Base Hospital Emergency Department.

P.A.R.T.Y. Coordinator Maura Desmond said local staff will lead the hospital visits in collaboration with trauma staff from Royal North Shore Hospital. She hopes that by exposing participating students to the traumatic consequences of risk-related behaviour, they will be able to recognize and mitigate risk.

“The students are shown in the hospital, not the classroom, what can happen to them if they engage in all manner of risky behaviour including the use of alcohol and drugs. Each program is adapted to the needs of the regional area where the program is being delivered. For example a big focus in Casino will be the use of ICE as this has now become an epidemic in this region” Ms Desmond said.

During the program, students will spend time with staff who deal daily with the impact of trauma on young lives. “We hope that by seeing the effects of trauma in the hospital environment they will make more positive choices”.

A key part of the program involves students taking part in ‘reduced function activities’. P.A.R.T.Y. staff bandage arms, provide neck braces and eye bandages so that students get a true understanding of what it is like to live with an injury or disability brought on by risky behaviour.

The P.A.R.T.Y Program has been conducted by the RNSH Trauma Hospital for the past 18 months and has targeted over 1200 youth from schools/education programs throughout NSW. It’s the first of its kind in NSW and has proven to be a great success so far with the program becoming finalists in two categories at the ‘Australian Road Safety Awards’ 2014.

“Our goal is to reduce the over representation of young adults in injury and trauma statistics,” Ms Desmond said.

 

“Young people are particularly vulnerable to risk taking behaviors. International studies have shown that exposing these students to the consequences of risky behavior resulted in a decline in risk related injuries”.

Northern NSW Local Health District is very pleased to be involved with the P.A.R.T.Y program and to have the opportunity to assist local young people to become better informed about risky behaviours, potential consequences and prevention choices to minimise risk.

The Bureau of Health Information (BHI) and the Cancer Institute of NSW have released feedback from almost 6,500 patients from a Survey they conducted on Adult Admitted patients with cancer, who were admitted to a NSW public hospital for the period July 2013 until July 2014.

This feedback revealed that NNSWLHD came in second to Southern NSW LHD, which was rated the highest overall in New South Wales.

The report contained results of 36 questions, which were organised into four groups:

Access and continuity of care Communication and patient engagement Personalised and responsive care Integrated and effective care.

Mr Crawford extended his appreciation to all the Clinicians and support Staff for the effort they make to achieve such pleasing results.

“Our clinical and support Staff are the face of the LHD. They are the first point of contact when patients are admitted to hospital, during their stay and when being discharged from hospital.

“It is heartening to receive such positive feedback from our patients. I thank our Clinicians and Staff for their dedication and the care they provide to patients across the LHD,” Mr Crawford said.

Chris Crawford, Chief Executive, NNSWLHD said, “For NNSWLHD patients have responded positively to the questions and the results are very good.”

“I was particularly pleased to read that Grafton Base Hospital was one of the best three hospitals in NSW. Each of these hospitals received significantly better results than the rest of NSW for 12 of the survey questions,” Mr Crawford said.

The results were significantly higher for the LHD from patients when asked if they were involved in decisions about discharge and they said Staff completely considered their family and home situation when planning their discharges.

Patients gave high praise to the nurses saying they were kind and caring and were always treated with respect and dignity while in hospital.

The Model of Care for Paediatric Services introduced at Murwillumbah District Hospital (MDH) in December 2014 has proven to be successful.

Four important changes have occurred being:

expansion of the Specialist Paediatric Clinics appointment of a new Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) creation of a Paediatric Room in the Emergency Department (ED) and provision of refresh and upskill education to the MDH Medical Officers and Nurses, who provide care for Paediatric patients that focusses on the detection and management of unwell children and childhood emergency illnesses.

In addition, the MDH Paediatric Nurses have had the opportunity to rotate to the Paediatric Ward at The Tweed Hospital to upskill.

Recently we were delighted to receive positive feedback from some MDH Visiting Medical Officers regarding the success of the Clinics and the rapid access that can be provided to them.

I wish to extend my thanks and to commend the MDH Clinicians for their collaborative engagement in the making of these positive changes to strengthen the MDH Paediatric Service, so improving the care available to sick children in Murwillumbah and surrounds.

We are also very pleased to welcome the appointment of Paediatrician, Dr Sanjeev Gupta to the Tweed Paediatric Network and Simone Hargraves as the new NUM of the MDH Paediatric Ward.

Dr Gupta has been conducting two Clinics per week in the child friendly environment of the MDH Paediatric Ward.

The upgrade and expansion of the MDH ED included the development of a Paediatric Room. This Room enables sicker children to be treated in comfort over a longer period in the MDH ED without having to be admitted, so allowing them to return home earlier.

Refresh and upskill education training for both Medical Officers and Nurses on Paediatric illnesses and the latest treatment techniques has been facilitated through a collaborative arrangement with the University Centre for Rural Health in its Murwillumbah Simulation Centre.

The Northern NSW Local Health (NNSWLHD) took part in the celebrations of the 17th annual NSW Health Awards held at a gala dinner at Sydney Olympic Park earlier this week.

Chris Crawford, Chief Executive, NNSWLHD said he was very pleased when news arrived that three of NNSWLHD entries had been selected as finalists in three categories for this year’s Annual Health Awards, with one of them winning. He said the entries were excellent and deserving of this recognition in a highly competitive field.

The winning entry was in the Integrated Healthcare category titled Early Detection of Chronic Kidney Disease in Aboriginal people and was submitted by NNSWLHD on behalf of Mr Graeme Turner, Renal Nurse Practitioner and the team he worked with.

The project is an integrated approach for the identification and management of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with Chronic Kidney Disease and was undertaken in collaboration with staff at the Bugalwena General Practice (GP) and the North Coast Medicare Local (now North Coast Primary Healthcare Network (NCPHN).

18% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have indicators for Chronic Kidney Disease. Early detection and management can slow progression of the disease and avoid or delay future requirement for dialysis. The NNSWLHD Nurse Practitioner, Bugalwena GP and NCPHN worked together to improve early identification of Chronic Kidney Disease, which resulted in an increase of the number of people identified from 10 to over 70 at Bugalwena GP.

Electronic Medical Record (EMR) searches were developed to assist in rapid identification of chronic kidney disease. Education was provided to Bugalwena GP staff and management plans for people with kidney disease were developed. Bugalwena GP has changed their practice to embedding kidney health checks in their routine health assessments. The program has also been operating in several other GPs and Aboriginal Health Centres throughout the NNSWLHD.

Other finalists were:

Sarah Lawty, Acting Quality and Safety Manager, Lismore Base Hospital for her project in the category Patients as Partners: Drain the Pain – An innovative liver project. This project was designed to empower, support and enhance access to care for patients with end stage liver disease. The success of the project relies heavily on collaboration between patients, carers, gastroenterologists, bed management radiology, nursing and allied health professionals.

Amara Fonseca, Acting Deputy Chief Radiation Therapist with Northern NSW Cancer Institute for her project in the category – Local Solutions titled Prostate Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy Treatment (IMRT) in Seven Mouse Clicks. The project aimed to improve the quality and efficiency of radiation treatment by developing, evaluating and implementing a class solution for prostate IMRT.

The Awards recognise the excellence of our nurses, clinicians, allied health professionals, support staff, researchers and volunteers, who go above and beyond on a daily basis to develop and implement innovative models of care with the aim of improving outcomes for patients across NSW,” Mr Crawford said.

Download the 2015 Quality Awards Winners

The new ‘Helping U 2 Quit Program’ is a free, evidence-based quit smoking support group run by qualified facilitators. The program is a community health initiative being delivered by CHEGS Inc, in partnership with Northern NSW Local Health District Health Promotion.

Jillian Adams, Health Promotion Manager for the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) said: The program will help people who smoke to develop their own skills and knowledge about smoking, how to quit, and how to stay a non-smoker in a supportive environment.

Tobacco smoking still causes more disease than any other risky behaviour with it damaging almost every organ of the body. At least 50% of all smokers die prematurely.

Quitting brings good news – if people can quit smoking by the time they are 30 years of age, they can avoid the risk of dying from smoking-related disease by 97%. As well, if they quit by 40, then they avoid 90% of the risk.

{blockquote]“This is why we are providing this program – to help people to quit smoking early so they can live healthier and longer lives. These groups will provide face-to-face support to strengthen quit attempts that GPs, pharmacists, Quitline or others are assisting with and they will increase the likelihood of people successfully quitting”, Ms Adams added. [/blockquote]

Helping U 2 Quit will be available in Ballina, Byron Bay, Casino, Kingscliff, Kyogle, Lennox Head, Lismore, Maclean, Murwillumbah, Pottsville, Tweed Heads and Yamba soon, numbers permitting.

People can register to participate in a support group by contacting Gavin Dart by phone on 6620 2553.

The Lismore Base Hospital Precinct Draft Travel Plan is now out for consultation. The purpose of the Travel Plan is to make it easier for patients, staff and visitors to travel to the Lismore Base Hospital precinct, to reduce parking issues and to promote active transport (including walking, cycling, car pooling and use of public transport.

Organisations represented on the Steering Committee overseeing development of the Plan include Northern NSW Local Health District, Health Infrastructure, Community Representative (Cancer Council volunteer), Northern Rivers Social Development Council, Transport for NSW and Lismore City Council.

Feedback on the plan is welcome and should be addressed to Jillian Adams, Health Promotion Manager, Northern NSW Local Health District at jillian.adams@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au by 28th September, 2015.

Download the Lismore Base Hospital Precinct Draft Travel Plan

The Northern NSW Integrated Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Plan 2015-2020 is now complete and is the result of a lot of hard work and cooperation between the Health Service and other key Agencies providing services to Aboriginal people on the North Coast.

Organisations represented on the Steering Committee overseeing development of the Plan include Northern NSW Local Health District, North Coast Primary Heath Network, Aboriginal Medical Services, Department of Family and Community Services-Northern District,  Aboriginal Learning Circle-North Coast Institute of Technical and Further Education and NSW Police-Northern Region.

The Plan is presented in three volumes:

Volume I reflects the vision, goals, partnerships, principles,  strategic directions and actions required to realise our vision and meet our commitment to closing the gap in health outcomes for Aboriginal people. Volume II provides a detailed health profile of Aboriginal people living on the North Coast.

The Plan seeks to grow collaboration through improved partnership arrangements between services with a strong focus on networking and service integration. Most importantly it emphasises the need to develop strong partnerships with Aboriginal people and to build relationships with and between service providers to foster participation in service planning, design and implementation.

• Volume III is intended to be a reference document containing information on a comprehensive range of services and programs available to Aboriginal people. It is not intended to detail every service however it describes most services provided through the partners to this Plan.

When Lismore Base Hospital Midwife Julie Whiteley was informed she had been awarded the perpetual Dorothy Edwards’ Midwifery Scholarship, her response was one of pure shock.

After delivering hundreds of babies during the past 44 years and witnessing at least two generations of locals born to then grow into successful adults, Julie’s thanks has always been at the hands of the many appreciative parents she has worked with over the past four decades.

“Me, no you’re joking. It must be someone else,” was Julie’s response to the news that she had been awarded the ultimate accolade of Midwife of the Year for 2015, as well as the accompanying $2000 scholarship.

Julie’s fellow midwives voted to award Julie the Dorothy Edwards’ Midwifery Scholarship, which annually recognises the hard work and dedication of one midwife at Lismore Base Hospital. The award comes with a $2000 financial component to be used towards training and/or conferences to increase the knowledge and expertise of the recipient in the field of midwifery.

Lismore-based paediatrician Dr Chris Ingall stated that Julie was a popular choice.

“Julie is a very conscientious worker and has provided very solid work for many, many years,” Dr Ingall said. “She can now attend conferences in midwifery and training throughout the next 12 months, thanks to the enormous generosity of Dorothy Edwards’ family and her estate.”

Dorothy was the Nurse Unit Manager of midwifery at Lismore Base Hospital for many years before her retirement in the 1990s. Sadly she died suddenly several years ago, with her husband Noel generously seeking to establish a Scholarship in her name.

“I am sure she will be looking down on Julie, whom she knew well, with warm praise and will be very happy the midwives and nurses in the Special Care Nursery will continue to be looked after long after she has passed,’ Dr Ingall said.

 

“Julie we hope you enjoy your time at the conference and bring back many gems of wisdom to help the local nurses continue their excellent work at the Base Hospital.”

Now that winter is upon us we can expect influenza and other respiratory illnesses to increase across the region, so protecting yourself and your family over winter is very important.

Paul Corben, Director of Public Health for the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts is urging the public, especially pregnant women, elderly people and those with chronic medical conditions to get vaccinated against the flu and to take other steps to avoid becoming ill during the winter months.

“Free flu vaccine is available to people who are more vulnerable to severe influenza, including those aged 65 years and older, pregnant women, people with chronic illness and Aboriginal people.

 

“Influenza vaccination during pregnancy should be considered routine as it protects both the mother and the infant.

Mr Corben said parents of children older than six months and who are at higher risk of severe influenza should also talk to their local GP to arrange a flu vaccination.

“Vaccination not only protects you against the flu or developing potentially serious illness, but also protects those around you,” Mr Corben said.

July to September are historically busy months for influenza and local hospitals expect respiratory related presentations and admissions to increase over this period.

“There are many bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory illness circulating in our community and vaccination, hand hygiene and cough etiquette remain the best defences against these germs,” Mr Corben said.

Other simple steps to help stay healthy this winter include:

Cover your face with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly;

Parents and families are also reminded that health advice and information is available via the free Health Direct Australia service, staffed by registered nurses 24-hours a day on:

1800 022 222.

• Stay home if you have the flu to avoid infecting others; and
• If you think you may have influenza and you need to see a doctor call first so the clinic can take precautions to reduce the risk to other people.

With the weather cooling down, NSW Health is reminding pregnant women about the importance of getting their influenza vaccination before the full force of winter hits.

Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director of Communicable Diseases Branch at NSW Health, said influenza can be dangerous for pregnant women.

“Data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), which is surveying new mums as part of the FluMum study, shows that the uptake of influenza vaccination has improved from about one in five pregnant women (23 per cent) in 2013 to almost one in three (32 per cent) in 2014,” she said.

 

“However, that is only 32 per cent of pregnant women in NSW being vaccinated for the flu compared with about 70 per cent of people aged 65 years and older across the state.”

Paul Corben, Director of Public Health for the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts said, “Women in their second and third trimester of pregnancy in particular, are at greater risk of very severe illness which can put both mother and baby at risk.

“Pregnant women who get influenza are at greater risk of developing serious complications, such as pneumonia, which may result in their hospitalisation.

 

“The risk of premature labour and delivery is also increased in pregnant women with influenza.

“Influenza vaccines are not available for children less than six months of age so protection can only be achieved by vaccinating a mother during pregnancy.

“Children born to vaccinated mothers also have a reduced risk of contracting influenza in the first six months of life,” Mr Corben said.

“The influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy. It’s safe and free for pregnant women so speak to your GP today.”

There are some simple precautions which pregnant women can take to minimise the risk of developing influenza including:

Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes. Encourage others to do so as well. Ask sick people to keep away until they are well. If you start to feel sick, call your doctor straight away. Early treatment of flu can help prevent complications. Treat fever straight away. Fever can harm your unborn baby.

Influenza and Pregnancy

The National Seasonal Influenza Program for 2015 commenced on 20 April 2015.

The annual seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for any person aged six months or older.

For more information on protecting yourself from influenza during pregnancy please go to the following link on the NSW Health website:

From 6 July 2015, all commercial outdoor dining areas in New South Wales will be smoke free. This means staff and patrons of Hotels, Clubs, Restaurants and Cafes will be able to work and dine outdoors without being exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke.

Jillian Adams, Health Promotion Manager for the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) said NSW Health was working closely with local businesses to help them get ready for smoke-free outdoor dining.

“There is strong public support for making outdoor dining areas smoke-free and a number of businesses have already voluntarily banned smoking in their outdoor dining areas with positive results,” Ms Adams said.

Last week, NSW Minister for Health, Jillian Skinner, said that new NSW Population Health Survey data has highlighted a continued decline in adult smoking rates in NSW – down from 16.4 per cent in 2013 to 15.6 per cent in 2014.

The Dragonfly Café in Lismore has had a smoke free outdoor dining area since Lismore City Council introduced Smoke Free Outdoors Dining leasing arrangements, as part of their smoke free Central Business District (CBD) policy in 2012.

Lisa Yacopetti, Manager of the Dragonfly Café said, “It was a great decision to go smoke free and customers have responded very positively to the change.”

Members of the public are encouraged to remind business owners of their obligations and to notify NSW Health if they observe smoking in dining areas by calling the tobacco information line on:

1800 357 412

Authorised inspectors will be monitoring outdoors dining areas. On the spot fines of $300 may apply to individuals who smoke in a commercial outdoor dining area from 6 July 2015. Penalties of up to $5,500 may apply to business owners if a person is found to be smoking in a commercial outdoor dining area.

The Lismore Base Hospital Cancer Care and Haematology Volunteer group recently had some of their long term volunteers retire and are now seeking more volunteers to replace those who have left.

The Cancer Care and Haematology Volunteer group are calling on members of the community who are interested in joining the Team of Volunteers.

An information session is being held in the Conference Room in the Lismore Cancer Care Unit on
Tuesday 16 June 2015 at 10.00am and all those interested are encouraged to attend.

This training should not be seen as a stepping stone for employment.

Enquiries please phone Coordinator, Jenny on:

(02) 6681 6649

Acomprehensive briefing on the construction progress of the new Byron Central Hospital located at Ewingsdale, Byron Bay will be held at the Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall on Wednesday 3 June 2015 at 5.30pm.

The community briefing will provide detailed information about the planning of acute care and community health services from senior members of the development team.

All residents of the Byron Shire and interested community members are welcome to attend the briefing, which will run for approximately 1½ hours.

The briefing on the $88M project is due for completion and opening in early 2016 and will include:

architectural plans, building construction and timetables sustainability (environmental measures) road access and onsite parking clinical services, including mental health relocation from the Shire’s two current hospitals.

Susan Walker: (02) 6620 2141

Robin Osborne: 0409 984 488

Where:

Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall, Dalley Street, Mullumbimby

The meeting will be chaired by Chris Crawford, Chief Executive of the Northern NSW Local Health District and members of the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions following the main presentations.

On Sunday 28 June from 9.00am until 1.00pm a Community Information Day is being held offering the local community an opportunity to go on-site and view the building works. Parking will be available on-site and BBQ food can be purchased.

Media contact:

The NSW Immunization Program provides our communities with protection against vaccine preventable diseases through initiatives targeting infants, children, adolescents, healthcare workers and older people.

Paul Corben, Director of Public Health for the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health District said vaccination is the best way to protect your child and other children in the community from serious diseases such as measles, whooping cough and hepatitis B.

“Vaccines work best if they are given on time. Even if a child has a runny nose or cold they can still have their vaccines,” Mr Corben said.

If you are unsure, talk to your immunisation provider because delaying vaccination can increase the risk of your child getting sick.

In April 2013 NSW Health made it easier for parents to ensure their children are fully immunised on time with an innovative App that will help ensure they are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases such as whooping cough.

While around 90% of children at 1 and 2 years of age in NSW are fully immunised, 95% coverage is needed for effective disease control.

An App for iPhone and Android phones has been developed and allows parents to enter their child’s name and birth date, as well as their GP’s contact details.

The App will then calculate the next immunisation due date and send a series of reminders to prompt the parent to call their GP to schedule an appointment for each immunisation. Parents can make that call straight from the App.

The Save the Date campaign website has been developed and includes resources such as a printable Personalised Vaccination Schedules, and immunisation videos.

Download the SAVE THE DATE App or print a Personalised Vaccination Schedule at http://www.immunisation.health.nsw.gov.au/

To book in for your child’s immunisations contact your local Community Health Centre or General Practitioner.

Around 10 per cent of HIV positive people in NSW may be unaware they are infected, a statistic NSW Health is looking to change.

NSW Health will stage HIV Testing Week from 1-7 June and will be encouraging at risk people to have a HIV test. Getting a HIV test is now easier and faster than ever before.

#EASYTOUR, a combined testing promotion and music tour will be visiting cities around NSW during HIV testing week to raise awareness of the importance of HIV testing and encouraging gay men and others, who are at risk to get an HIV test. The tour will include information on how easy it is to get a HIV test in each local area.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said that the government has made significant progress in making HIV testing easier and faster by providing a mix of high quality, safe and innovative HIV testing services such as rapid HIV testing, express clinics, after hours and drop in clinics, faster results and online booking, which are all part of a new era in HIV testing in NSW. People can also request a test at their GP.

Jenny Heslop, Manager of North Coast HIV & Related Programs said: “We need to keep HIV testing on the agenda and not become complacent. It is equally important for regional communities to remain focussed and not think HIV is only a matter for larger cities and metropolitan areas”.

 

“We know there are around 10,500 people in living in NSW who have been diagnosed with HIV infection,” Ms Heslop said.

Lismore Sexual Health Service in collaboration with ACON Northern Rivers will be hosting a BBQ and HIV drop in clinic on Saturday 6th June from 1pm to 5pm at Lismore Sexual Health in the lead up to the Tropical Fruits Dance party that night.

“Increasing testing rates is vital because HIV is generally transmitted by people who don’t know they have been exposed to HIV and haven’t recently been tested. During HIV Testing Week, we are encouraging people to check their HIV status by attending a local Sexual Health Clinic or GP,” Ms Heslop explained.

Dr Chant said most infections reported in 2014 were in gay and homosexually-active men (79 per cent) with heterosexual cases accounting for 14 per cent. In 2014, HIV testing has increased both overall in NSW and among high risk groups but more needs to be done”.

As well as gay men, heterosexual people who may be at risk of HIV should be tested. This includes people from countries, where there are high rates of HIV infection and anyone who has unprotected sex while travelling in any of these countries. Anyone who has had unprotected sex with a high risk person should also be tested.

“Achieving high levels of testing, treatment, and maintaining safe sex practices are the key if we are to achieve our ambitious target of ending HIV,” Dr Chant said.

To find out where to get tested go to: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx.

For more information on HIV testing, treatment and prevention call:

1800 451 624

Ending HIV

Members of the Byron Shire and surrounding areas are invited to a briefing on the new Byron Central Hospital at Ewingsdale due to open early in 2016. The open briefing will be held at 5.30pm until 7.00pm on Wednesday 3 June 2015 at Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall. Information about the planning of acute care and community health services will be provided by the Project Development Team. The community briefing is free of charge and expected to run for 1½ hours.

Where:

Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall, Dalley Street, Mullumbimby

When:

Wednesday, June 3, 2015 5.30pm – 7.00pm

Further information:

Robin Osborne 0409 984 488

The Lismore Base Hospital is seeking applications from Volunteers to participate in an innovative program to support older people in hospital with dementia or patients who experience confusion during their hospital stay.

Anne Moehead, Nurse Practitioner, Psychogeriatrics said the hospital is hoping to recruit a significant number of Volunteers for this program.

“The aim of the program is to improve the overall hospital experience for people with dementia or other memory and thinking problems, when they are admitted to hospital,” Ms Moehead said.

Volunteers will provide one on one support aimed at assisting those experiencing dementia or confusion to feel more relaxed.

“This can be done through a variety of activities such as playing cards and reading books. In addition, Volunteers provide assistance to patients who require help with eating and drinking,” said Anne Moehead.

“Successful applicants will be provided with initial training and ongoing support. The Volunteers are expected to participate in the program for only a few hours each week and specific days and times are flexible.”

Volunteering has many benefits, apart from the satisfaction experienced from helping others, volunteering is also a way of learning and gaining new skills and developing new friendships.

Those interested in taking part in this volunteer program or for further information and an application package are encouraged to contact Anne Moehead:

(02) 6620 2612 Anne.Moehead@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that each year, almost 10,000 Australians die of a heart attack? That’s one Australian life claimed every 53 minutes.

More than 1 million Australians aged 30-65 are at high risk of having a heart attack or stroke — but they may not even know it.

Will you recognise your heart attack? Go to Heart Attacks Facts website to find out:

What happens during a heart attack The warning signs of heart attack Read some personal stories How to download or order heart attack action plans

1300 362 787

Heart Foundation

Heart Attack Facts

For further information, call the Heart Foundation Information Service or visit their website:

NSW Health has launched a website that aims to boost the number of Aboriginal people working in health professions across the state by helping Aboriginal people find jobs and helping managers to recruit and retain Aboriginal staff.

The website, Stepping Up, identifies job opportunities at NSW Health and provides clear guidance to Aboriginal people wishing to build a career in the health sector.

Chris Crawford, Chief Executive, Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), said the Stepping Up website will help Aboriginal applicants overcome the challenge of finding a job that matched their experience and aspirations.

“The Stepping Up website also provides information and tools to help managers recruit and retain the Aboriginal staff across the broad spectrum of health roles,” Mr Crawford said.

 

“NSW Health offers a wide range of employment opportunities to people who are passionate about closing the health gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians.

“These roles include medical and primary care practitioners, nurses, midwives, service and program managers, Aboriginal Health Workers, Aboriginal Mental Health Workers, administrators and leadership positions.

“We want to help Aboriginal people of all ages carve out a career path in the health sector where they can use their skills to deliver health services and culturally appropriate care in our communities, where it’s most needed.”

Mr Crawford said Aboriginal employees currently made up 2.1% of the NSW Health workforce but NSW Health is aiming to raise this to 2.6% by the end of 2015. In some Local Health Districts, such as NNSWLHD, the Aboriginal Workforce is already higher than 2.1% and these LHDs will be setting themselves higher targets to grow their Aboriginal workforces.

“NSW Health is committed to increasing Aboriginal representation in our health workforce so that Aboriginal people have the chance to contribute to improving health outcomes in our communities,” he/she said.

The Stepping Up website provides:

Information on cadetships and scholarships Help with searching for a job Information about available positions Job application tips Information about submitting a job application Details on screening and checks.

Stepping Up

Filmed interviews with Aboriginal employees and managers at NSW Health are available on request.

Media contact:

Susan Walker

Media Manager for the Northern NSW Local Health District
0413 028 683

The Stepping Up website can be viewed at:

The Yamba Healthy Towns Challenge is coming to an end but not before one final virtual race.  To assist in promoting the activity, Yamba Library will soon have some “Get Healthy” boxes and pedometers available for loan. The boxes will contain easily set up sports equipment that can be used by the whole family. The pedometers will help you determine whether you are achieving your daily 10,000 steps (this is the target set for health). This equipment will be available from mid-May.

“We invite residents of the Clarence Valley to get involved in the inaugural Get on Track Challenge. It is free to join and there are some great prizes including fitness trackers and recipe books for winning teams,” said Jillian Adams, Manager of Health Promotion for the Northern NSW Local Health District.

 

“The challenge involves forming teams of up to four people and racing along a virtual track by logging your daily fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity.”

“Anyone who has an email address and has access to the internet can get involved. It is a great way to remember how to get your five serves of vegetables, two serves of fruit and some daily physical activity every day, plus it leads to some friendly competition among the teams,” Ms Adams said.

The challenge officially starts on May 4th but registrations are open now!

Get a couple of family members, friends, colleagues or sports team mates together and join the race!

For more information and to register you can contact local Health Promotion Officer Kate Collins on:-

yambahealthytowns@gmail.com 0429 033 517

And remember, if this particular Challenge isn’t for you, The Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service® provides tailored and ongoing telephone support, so you can achieve your health goals.

Your free personal qualified health coach will help you eat healthier, be more active so you can reach and maintain a healthy weight.

It’s a FREE service provided by NSW Health so why not call now.

1300 806 258 (Monday – Friday 8am – 8pm)  or visit us at www.gethealthynsw.com.au

Grafton Base Hospital (GBH) was chosen to take part in the Aboriginal Identification in Hospital Quality Improvement Project (AIHQIP), which was implemented in eight New South Wales Hospitals.

Dan Madden, Executive Officer said the project commenced and ran over an eight month period from 21 October 2013 until 30 June 2014.

“The Aim of the project was to work in partnership with the Emergency Department (ED) in collaboration with Bulgarr Ngaru Aboriginal Medical Service and the local Aboriginal Communities of Malabugilmah, Baryulgil and Grafton,” Mr Madden said.

“This partnership was to identify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, who presented to the ED as an Incomplete Emergency Attendance (IEA) or were Discharge Against Medical Advice (DAMA), so that we could improve the identification of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to ascertain if there was an increase in these presentations,” said Mr Madden.

Carmel Monaghan, GBH Aboriginal Liaison Officer, who worked on the Project said, “One of the recommendations that came from the AIHQIP Project identified a need to display Local Aboriginal Artwork in the ED for a more cultural and friendly environment to improve access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who present to the ED.

“The Clarence Valley is home to three distinct Aboriginal Communities – Bunjalung, Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr from the upper and lower Clarence area,” Ms Monaghan said.

GBH is conducting an Aboriginal Art Exhibition in the Education Centre of the Hospital over three consecutive days starting Wednesday 29 April to Friday 1 May 2015 from 10.30am until 3.00pm

The intention is to provide Local Aboriginal Artists from the Clarence Valley the opportunity to showcase their artwork, which will be selected and purchased by GBH for display in the ED.

Hospital staff and members of the public are welcome to attend and vote on their favourite pieces, which will be taken into consideration by the Judging Panel.

The 2015 National Seasonal Influenza Immunization Program has commenced, following a delay due to a change in two strains from the 2014 vaccine.

North Coast Acting Director of Public Health, Greg Bell said this double-strain change was an unusual occurrence and caused manufacturing delays.

“NSW Health is urging the public – especially pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions – to get vaccinated against the flu,” Mr Bell said.

Influenza vaccination provides protection for about a year. People who had the seasonal influenza vaccine anytime in 2014 still need to be vaccinated in 2015 to maintain immunity against influenza. Given the 2015 influenza seasonal vaccine contains two new strains, it is especially important that those at risk be vaccinated.

“Free flu vaccine is available to people considered more vulnerable to severe influenza, including those aged 65 years and older, pregnant women, people with chronic illness as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Parents of children older than 6 months old – who are at higher risk of severe influenza – should talk to their local GP to arrange a flu vaccination.

“Influenza vaccination during pregnancy should be considered routine as it protects both the mother and the infant.

“People who don’t get vaccinated not only place themselves at risk of the flu and developing potentially serious illness, but also put others at risk of infection.

“It takes time for the vaccine to work so now is the time to get vaccinated before the winter period when influenza is most prevalent.

“Taking preventive measures with personal hygiene, such as covering your mouth when coughing and washing your hands regularly, will also help reduce the risk of contracting the flu virus.”

Simple steps to help stay healthy this winter include:

Cover your face with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly;

NSW Health reminds parents and families that health advice and information is available via the free Health Direct Australia service, staffed by registered nurses 24-hours a day on 1800 022 222.

• Stay home if you have the flu to avoid infecting others; and
• If you think you may have influenza and you need to see a doctor call first so the clinic can take precautions to reduce the risk to other people.

In December last year the Bureau of Health Information released its “Patient Perspectives – Exploring aspects of integration for Adult Admitted Hospital Patients”.

Dr Brian Pezzutti, Chair of Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Board said the Report explored aspects of integration for hospital patients that was based on survey data collected from over 35,000 people, who were admitted to a NSW Public Hospital during 2013.

“The NNSWLHD has performed extremely well in this Report for its Peer Group, especially in coordination and continuity of hospital care and responsiveness to patients’ needs and expectations,” Dr Pezzutti said.

“After reading the Report I was very pleased to read how well the NNSWLHD rated in all the categories. For instance, the results for ‘coordination and continuity of care in hospital’, the LHD rated significantly higher in all categories:

Doctors ‘always’ knew enough about the patient’s medical history. Nurses ‘always’ knew enough about care or treatment. Care was ‘very well organised’ Doctors and nurses worked together in a ‘very good’ way.

“I therefore wish to extend, on behalf of the NNSWLHD Board, congratulations and sincere thanks to the dedicated Clinicians, Nursing Staff and Support Staff for their outstanding performance in caring for Patients who are admitted to our hospitals,” said Dr Pezzutti.

Again, under the category for ‘involvement of patients in decisions’ the LHD scored significantly higher than NSW for all three questions:

‘Completely’ involved in decisions about medication taking home; ‘Definitely’ involved in decisions about discharge; ‘Definitely’ involved in decisions about care or treatment.

“Similar results were received under the coordination and care continuity at discharge and provision of information to a relative,” Dr Pezzutti said.

I am enormously proud of our Staff after reading “Across LHDs Northern NSW had significantly more positive results than the NSW average for all four questions on responsiveness to patient’s needs and expectations.”

The Northern NSW Local Health District Health (NNSWLHD) Promotion team are currently visiting Yamba Pharmacies every second Thursday to assist people with questions regarding smoking cessation and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).

The Health Promotion Team are inviting members of the community to come along and let them know what services they would like to see in Yamba that will help people to quit smoking. The Team will be in Yamba on Thursday 2 April 2015.

Jillian Adams, Manager, Health Promotion for NNSWLHD said, “Smoking is the biggest killer in Australia and affects every organ in your body. In Australia we lose approximately 300 lives per week due to smoking related illness. That is equivalent to a passenger plane crashing every week and having no survivors. Smoking and the related health issues have economic as well as social consequences for everyone in the community.”

The Health Promotion team are trained to access nicotine dependence and advise smokers on the best strategies to quit. For smokers who quit now, will notice the benefits appear more quickly and continue for years. Once you stop smoking:

Within 20 minutes your heart rate reduces. Within 12 hours the carbon monoxide level in your blood reduces dramatically -this can be measured at the pharmacy using a smokerlyzer. At 3 days phlegm loosens in the lungs and starts to clean-up. Taste and smell return. You will feel less short of breath. After 3 weeks, activity is much easier After 2 months, blood flow to the hands and feet improves.

Yamba dates and session times are all FREE

Soul Pattinson Chemist Yamba
17 Yamba Street, Yamba Yamba Priceline Pharmacy

Yamba Shopping Fair, Yamba
Thursday 2 April 2015 9:00am – 11:00am 11:30 am – 1:30pm
Thursday 16 April 2015 9:00am – 11:00am 11:30 am – 1:30pm
Thursday 30 April 2015 9:00am – 11:00am 11:30 am – 1:30pm

Come along and have a chat – you could go into the draw to win a $50 Shopping voucher

• After 3 months, lung cleansing (cilia) is working normally. Carbon monoxide has left the blood. You will have more energy. Hair and skin look healthier. Men have a higher sperm count.
• After one year, the risk of heart attack drops to half.
• After 10 years, the risk of lung cancer drops to half.

People with confusion including those suffering dementia and delirium are at a higher risk of falling,” said Julia Dayhew, Falls Prevention Coordinator for Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD).

“It is important to find the reason for the patient’s confusion so that interventions can be put in place to help prevent a fall. Signs of confusion can be sudden and fluctuate, and can also be accompanied by increased agitation, disorientation or changes in the level of consciousness,” Ms Dayhew said.

“Families and Carers of patients in hospital can provide Staff with valuable information should they find their loved one is more confused than normal, so it is essential to consult with the family.

“A fall is serious and can lead to long term hospitalisation, loss of independence, the need for supported care and in some cases, premature death,” Ms Dayhew said.

One in three people older than 65 have a fall each year and up to one fifth of these people experience multiple falls. According to Neuroscience Research Australia poor balance is the cause of the majority of falls in older adults.

The good news is by participating in activities that improve balance and strength, we can help ourselves prevent falls as we get older. Strength and balance is essential for us to continue everyday activities such as walking up and down stairs and responding successfully to unpredictable hazards even in our own home.

Ms Dayhew said, Community Health Education Groups (CHEGS) has been offering a range of gentle exercise classes and Falls Prevention Programs in the Northern Rivers for decades.”

Current groups include gentle exercise, Tai Chi and Qigong as well as the free eight week Falls Prevention Program – ‘Stepping On’.

For more information on CHEGS and classes offered near you visit http://www.chegs.org.au.

For more information on Falls Prevention visit the Clinical Excellence Commission website and follow the April Falls Day® 2015 link http://www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/programs/falls-prevention/april-falls-day-2015.

NSW Health will now provide free vaccinations against pertussis (whooping cough) to pregnant women during their third trimester, after evidence showed it lessened the risk of infants catching the potentially fatal infection.

Paul Corben, Director of Public Health from the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health District said NSW Health will fund the new initiative during the current outbreak of whooping cough.

The change in advice is in line with a new recommendation released by The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

“We urge pregnant women to ensure they are vaccinated in their third trimester, ideally at 28-32 weeks, as it offers the best protection for babies until their first vaccination at six to eight weeks of age,” said Mr Corben.

The NHMRC, which is responsible for endorsing the Australian Immunisation Handbook, updated its advice after a review of available evidence showed that immunising pregnant mothers in the third trimester significantly reduces the incidence of whooping cough in newborn babies, and therefore lessens the risk of infant death.

The updated advice is a result of work undertaken by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) for the Australian Technical Advisory Group for Immunisation (ATAGI).

“Whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy has been studied in more than 37,000 women in the United States and the United Kingdom and is shown to be very safe,” Mr Corben said.

“Studies in the UK, United States and Israel provide evidence that the best way to protect infants too young to be vaccinated themselves – who are at highest risk of morbidity and mortality – is through vaccinating the mother during pregnancy.

“It is vital that parents also ensure all their children are up to date with their vaccinations to minimize the risk of whooping cough circulating in the family. Adults in close contact with young babies should also discuss the benefits of the vaccine, which is available on prescription, with their GP.

“Whooping cough is easily spread to new babies, so it’s important to keep people with coughs away from them, in case they have whooping cough or other nasty infections,” he said.

Pertussis disease notifications in NSW have been increasing since mid-2014.
There were 177 reported cases in January 2014, increasing to 501 in December 2014 – mainly across the 0-14 year age group.

“Epidemics of pertussis occur about every three to four years, as community immunity wears down. The last outbreak was in early 2012 and we are seeing the kinds of numbers that indicate we are experiencing another one,” said Mr Corben.

Pertussis is a serious respiratory infection that causes a long coughing illness. In babies, the infection can sometimes lead to pneumonia and occasionally brain damage, and can be life threatening.

Lismore Base Hospital Stage 3a Redevelopment – Main Entrance Construction Works

The $80.25 million Lismore Base Hospital Stage 3a Redevelopment includes the construction of a new main entrance forecourt and Patient drop-off zone for the hospital.

“These works will improve the main entrance to the hospital and create a safer access point by providing separate vehicle and pedestrian entry,” said Lynne Weir, Executive Director, Richmond Clarence Health Service Group.”

During the building works, construction fencing will be in place around the front of the hospital, which will obstruct the view of the main entrance from Uralba Street.

“While this temporary construction fencing is in place, pedestrian access to the main hospital entrance and the Emergency Department will be maintained. However the existing Patient drop off area to the hospital main entrance will not be available,” said Ms Weir.

A temporary Patient drop-off area will be located on Uralba Street in front of the Emergency Department.

Signage will direct Staff, Patients and Visitors to this access point.

These works will commence from Monday 20 April 2015 and are scheduled for completion in August 2015.

NSW Health is urging people to take extra precautions to protect themselves against mosquitoes following a seven fold increase in detections of the mosquito-borne virus Ross River Fever across the State compared with this time last year.

Paul Corben, Director of Public Health for Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts said it’s the second time this year that NSW Health has issued a warning about mosquito-borne illnesses.

“Autumn is the peak time of the year for these insects to carry such infections so it is also when there is the highest number of mosquito-borne viral infections,” Mr Corben said.

“So far this year, NSW Health has seen an increase in reporting of people infected by mosquito-borne viruses. There have been 539 notifications of Ross River virus infections across the State compared with just 79 for the same period in 2014.

“While all parts of the State have reported cases, residents of the North Coast of NSW have been particularly affected, with 319 notifications of Ross River virus received so far this year compared to 19 for the same period last year,” said Mr Corben.

“NSW Health’s Arbovirus Monitoring Program has recently detected Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest Virus in mosquitoes in Sydney, including around the Georges River, the Homebush and Hawkesbury areas, as well as a number of other parts of the State.

“These infections can cause symptoms including tiredness, rash, fever and, sore and swollen joints. The symptoms usually resolve after several days but some people may experience these symptoms for weeks or even months.

“There is no specific treatment for these viruses. The best way to avoid infection is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

“Our mosquito surveillance has found increasing numbers of mosquitoes in many parts of the State. Even more are predicted as a result of high tides together with the recent heavy rains in parts of NSW.”

Mr Corben said the next few weeks – when many people will be spending the Easter break outdoors – will be ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes carrying these viruses.

“It is possible that these mosquitoes will be carrying the even more serious viruses such as Kunjin and Murray Valley Encephalitis,” said Mr Corben.

 

“It is particularly important for people planning to take trips during the Easter holidays to be prepared with measures to prevent mosquito bites.”

Simple steps to avoid mosquito bites include:

 Avoid being outside unprotected, particularly during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. When outside cover up as much as possible with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear. Apply mosquito repellent regularly to exposed areas (as directed on the container). Repellents containing Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin are best. Don’t use repellents on the skin of children under the age of three months. Instead use physical barriers such as netting on prams, cots and play areas for babies. When camping, use flyscreens, or sleep under mosquito nets. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by getting rid of items that hold water or by emptying the containers.

Barmah Forest Fact Sheet

Kunjin Virus Fact Sheet

Murray Valley Encephalitis Fact Sheet

NSW Health routinely issues health alerts to inform the public on potential concerns regarding health and well-being which are available on the NSW Health website.

For copies of the NSW Health fact sheet on Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Kunjin virus, and Murray Valley Encephalitis virus go to:

Ross River Fact Sheet

The North Coast NSW Human Research Ethics Committee is currently expanding its membership with the following four positions open for recruitment.

One Layman position One Laywomen position One Pastoral Carer – Minister of Religion or Aboriginal Elder and One Lawyer who is not engaged to advise the institution.

Further information about the NCNSW HREC and the current vacancies is available from:

Northern NSW Human Research Ethics Website

If you or you know someone who may be interested in applying to join the Committee, please contact the Janine Holston:
66720 269 EthicsNCNSW@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

The Human Research and Ethics Committee (HREC) is convened in accordance with the guidelines set out in the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. The National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2007 (updated 2009) can be viewed at: http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/guidelines/publications/e72

The role of the Ethics Committee is to review and consider the ethical implications of research involving human subjects, which is proposed to be undertaken within the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD).

In accordance with National Statement, Membership of a HREC should contain equal numbers of men and women with at least one third of the members being from outside the institutions for which the HREC is reviewing the research.

It should be noted that to be eligible for appointment in the lay categories, men and women must have no affiliation with the NNSWLHD and must not be currently engaged in medical, scientific, legal or academic work.

Prospective applicants should also be aware that positions on the NCNSW HREC are voluntary and therefore do not attract any remuneration.

If you succumbed to over-eating this Christmas don’t fall for the crash diet solution in the New Year,” warned Jillian Adams, Health Promotion Manager for the Northern NSW Local Health District.

Ms Adams said it was easy to fall into the trap of over-indulging during the Christmas period, and to then worry about weight gain.

“Often people turn to crash diets as a ‘fix it’ measure to lose weight quickly,” Jillian Adams said.

“Research shows that crash diets achieve little in long-term weight loss. The short-term success is usually due to loss of water and muscle mass, and many crash diets do not provide adequate nutrients and are bad for a person’s long-term health.”

Crash diets may also cause fatigue and affect concentration.

“The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Start with small, manageable steps to make healthy food choices and begin a regular exercise program which is fun and can be easily slotted into your daily schedule,” Ms Adams said.

“Some easy changes are to choose smaller portions, select healthier take away choices by using the kilojoule information on menu boards, carry a piece of fruit with you as a handy snack, fill your plate with vegetables at dinner and make water your drink of choice. Fruit and vegetables are beneficial to long-term health, particularly to reduce the risk of chronic disease such as cancer.”

Jillian Adams said people should try to be active every day. “Just 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week improves your heart health and helps with weight control. This can include walking, swimming, dancing, gardening or playing golf and will increase your heart rate but not necessarily make you short of breath.”

“A misconception about regular exercise was that it must be strenuous to reap any benefits. It is far more important that you do something you find enjoyable and means you are more likely to make exercise part of your life rather than let it dwindle away,” Ms Adams said.

Even periods of 10 minutes can assist in health benefits…

Those unable to fit 30 minute sessions into their lifestyles could still gain health benefits from periods of activity as brief as 10 minutes, providing they added up to 30 minutes in total on most days.

“Even small things like taking the stairs instead of the lift or walking to the corner shop instead of driving can help make you more active.

“Besides helping to keep your weight at a healthy level, regular exercise and a healthy eating plan offer a range of benefits including lower stress levels, better concentration, and more self-confidence.

“As an extra bonus you’ll have higher energy levels, giving you an added boost to enjoy more in life.”

NSW Health offers a free six month telephone coaching and online information service for people wanting to lose weight and improve their health, the Get Healthy Service.

A key initiative of the NSW Healthy Eating Active Living Strategy: Preventing Overweight and Obesity in NSW 2013-2018, the Get Healthy Service is a whole of government strategy to promote healthy eating, physical activity and the achievement and maintenance of healthy weight in children and adults.

Getting healthy starts with a phone call or by logging onto the website:
1300 806 258

Get Healthy NSW Website

The North Coast Public Health Unit is reminding residents and visitors to protect themselves against mosquitoes as the number of people diagnosed with Ross River Virus is already above average for this time of year.

“Ross River virus is passed to people by mosquitoes and so far in November and December this year, we have seen more people infected than usual on the north coast,” said Tony Kohlenberg, Senior Environmental Health Officer.

“The mosquito numbers will increase now that we’ve had some more rain, which forms puddles and ponding where mosquitoes prefer to breed,” Mr Kohlenberg said.

Compared to the rest of NSW, people living on the north coast are five to eight times more likely to be infected with Barmah Forest virus and three to five times more likely to be infected with Ross River virus.

Over the past decade an average of 475 people living on the NSW north coast were diagnosed each year with either Ross River virus or Barmah Forest virus.

Simple steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes include:

When outside cover up as much as possible with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and covered footwear. Use an effective repellent on all exposed skin. Re-apply repellent within a few hours, as protection wears off with perspiration. The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin. Light mosquito coils or use vapourising mats indoors. Devices that use light to attract and electrocute insects are not effective. Cover all windows, doors, vents and other entrances with insect screens.

“Preventing infection with these viruses depends on avoiding mosquito bites, especially in the warmer months of the year when mosquitoes are most active,” Mr Kohlenberg said.

More information about mosquito-borne diseases can be found at:

Factsheet: Mosquitoes

• When camping, use flyscreens on caravans and tents or sleep under mosquito nets.

Today, Lismore Base Hospital Children’s Ward celebrateed the Clown Doctors bringing 10 years of laughter and fun into the lives of young children while they are in hospital.

Imagine being a child in hospital, away from the comfort of your home and all that is familiar, feeling sad, confused, frightened and lonely or in pain.

This is where the Clown Doctors can help. They treat children in hospital with medicine of a different kind… doses of fun and laughter.

Clown Doctors address the psychosocial needs of the child in hospital in a unique way. They help children feel less traumatised by medical procedures. They divert children during painful procedures, help calm a distressed child in emergency and encourage children in physiotherapy.

They do this and much more by bringing humour and help them to forget their illness for a moment.

The Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Health Promotion team has put together a checklist and website packed with information to help parents ensure their children are in good health and ready for Primary School.

Dr Avigdor Zask, Acting Manager of NNSW Health Promotion said research evidence shows children with health problems, which have not yet been detected and addressed, are more likely to have difficulties enjoying school and learning well.

“The website gives contact details for free before school health checks such as vision, hearing and speech, and practical information on subjects like sun safety and healthy lunch box packing.

“This information will help parents and carers to consider a range of health and wellbeing topics and if necessary, get help to address these concerns,” Dr Zask said.

The checklist has been designed so that parents and carers can easily determine whether all relevant aspects of their child’s health have been assessed and address any concerns by contacting local health services.

The website can be accessed at:

http://nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/health-promotion/kids-and-families/fit-4-school/

or by going to

http://nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/health-promotion/

, clicking on the Kids and Families tab and then on the Fit 4 School tab.