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04 HEALTH
THURSDAY 1 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS
Hearing Aus on the line Hearing Australia has taken a major step forward in helping close the First Nations hearing gap, with the launch of a new, dedicated First Nations Telephone Support Line, making it easier for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to access hearing help. Operating since March this year, the Support Line has been
accessed by people across the country looking for information and advice. Hearing Australia First Nations Services Unit’s Sherilee McManus said it was a dedicated service. “Our First Nations Support Line is a dedicated service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as health and education providers
working in First Nations communities,” she said. “It offers general ear and hearing health information and support to help increase access to culturally appropriate, timely and accurate ear and hearing health information. “It was a key deliverable under our three-year Action Plan and after trialling and refining the service, we’re pleased
that parents, health professionals, educators and others working with First Nations communities, can now access the support they need by simply giving us a call.” • People can access the First Nations Support Line by calling 134 432 and selecting ‘Option 4’ MondayFriday from 8.30am-5pm AEST, or by emailing FirstNations@hearing. com.au
ENROLNOW BOARDING IN CAIRNS YEAR 7-12 Home away from home All excursions and meals provided Academies of Excellence in Sports, the Arts and Hospitality Wide range of VET courses Hearing Australia First Nations spokesperson Elsie Seriat OAM and her two children. Pic supplied.
Wet soil health risk warning www.djarragun.qld.edu.au | 07 4043 3777
Residual wet season boggy conditions have prompted health authorities to issue
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a timely reminder to residents to look after their safety and health. Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said all Far Northern residents should be aware of the increased risk of infection if people came into direct contact with polluted waters. Wound infections, dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and ear, nose and throat infections can occur. Dr Hempenstall said all wounds should be immediately cleaned, disinfected, and kept covered. “You should also consider avoiding flood water and mud if you
have broken skin or wounds, especially if you have diabetes or other chronic diseases,’’ she said. “And please see a health professional or your doctor early for severe wounds, especially if the wound is dirty or becomes red, sore, swollen, or painful.’’ Wet conditions may also increase the risk of diarrhoeal conditions and diseases such as leptospirosis and melioidosis. “For instance, we have already had five cases of leptospirosis across the health service region so far this year, compared to the one or two cases we might normally expect for year
to date,” she said. Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira bacteria, which is found in urine from infected animals including rats, mice, cattle, pigs, and dogs. “The bacteria can enter the body through skin cuts or abrasions or through the lining of the mouth, nose, and eyes by exposure to water, soil or mud contaminated with the urine from infected animals,’’ Dr Hempenstall said. Dr Hempenstall said symptoms of leptospirosis may include fever, severe headache, muscle aches, chills, vomiting, and red eyes, and usually develop after five to 14 days following infection.
