The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) looks forward to working closely with SA Health to ensure the health and safety of those impacted by the marine algae bloom in coastal areas.
It comes following Chief Public Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spurrier, promising to provide specific resources and support for GPs helping patients experiencing conjunctivitis, skin rashes, respiratory problems and asthma attacks.
RACGP South Australia Chair, Dr Sian Goodson, welcomed the commitment.
“This is a positive step forward and the College thanks Professor Spurrier for listening to the concerns of GPs and acting to help us care for patients experiencing health issues related to this toxic algae bloom,” she said.
“One of the reasons GPs and practice teams are so highly valued in their community is because we are always there for our patients, particularly when public health issues emerge. Comprehensive and highly visibly public health advice as well as specific advice for GPs helping concerned patients will make a tremendous difference. The College looks forward to working closely with SA Health to do all we can to help people experiencing these health concerns.”
Dr Goodson also urged people in coastal communities to stay safe.
“There is no need to be overly alarmed; however, residents and those visiting these communities can take steps to avoid negative health repercussions,” she said.
“If you live in a coastal area, you can check the SA Health website for new alerts and information. The latest alert from 19 May, for example, advises people not to visit beaches at Goolwa Channel, Southern Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island. It’s important to point out that this includes not only swimming but even walking on the beach. Some people have even reported difficulty breathing while walking near the water, so that’s something to keep in mind.
“I also encourage patients to carefully monitor their health. The algae bloom can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, ears, nose and mouth, and swallowing affected water can cause gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. We want people enjoying our beaches and getting plenty of exercise swimming or walking and running, but for the time being we must heed this advice and avoid impacted areas.”
~ENDS
RACGP spokespeople are available for interviews: 03 8699 0992 / [email protected].
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The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is the peak representative organisation for general practice, the backbone of Australia’s health system. We set the standards for general practice, facilitate lifelong learning for GPs, connect the general practice community, and advocate for better health and wellbeing for all Australians.
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