2024 Archives - Illawarra Medical Centre

Reflecting on 30 years of Illawarra Medical Centre

walrus — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:07:02 +0000

Illawarra Medical Centre recently celebrated its 30^th anniversary milestone. Established by Principal GP – Dr Alan Leeb – in 1994, the practice has grown from a small office style clinic with a handful of staff to become the busy practice, with more than 20 support staff and 16 doctors, that it is today. In this month’s blog, Dr Alan Leeb reflects on the changes, challenges and triumphs of the last 30 years.

In the beginning. . .

“It’s hard to believe it’s been three decades since this journey began. When I started Illawarra Medical Centre, I was young – only 37 years of age, black hair, full of energy, naïve and senseless. I suppose the only thing that’s changed, is that I am now classed as a senior citizen, grey, not so energetic, but still naive and senseless!” Dr Leeb said.

“When I first started in Ballajura, it was just my original Receptionist – Carol – and I. Carol had a single phone line and a wire bound A4 book, where she wrote down the names of our bookings in a column on the left, with the date at the top and down the right side of the page a column for fees, which were diligently totalled at the end of each day.

“Those books were our bible. If the power went down, we still had the book. We had little post card sized patient cards with minimal records. It was all very simple and efficient and it just worked!

“I think I learned more real medicine from Carol in those first few years than any medical textbook. She had such an in depth knowledge of the community and their context that was far more important than the medical illness itself.

The changes over the years

“From there we grew the practice. Firstly, internally; then by expanding into the carpark at the back of the centre, followed by the police station, and then a join between the two buildings.

“We then expanded further into what is now our existing building, which had been a Caltex service station in a previous life. As such, it took a really long five years to remove all the hydrocarbons out of the ground before we could safely build.

“And here we are 13 years later with our medical centre, accompanied by the physio and dental suites – who have both been with us since those early days – and an on-site pharmacy too.

“It’s not only the practice that has changed over the last 30 years; there have been significant changes in the medical field itself.

“Over the last three decades, we’ve weathered more pandemics than anyone signed up for, tackled enough paperwork to make a rainforest cry, and still managed to smile through most of it – mainly because the coffee machine was always working!

“Sadly, even with all the technology available to us today, we still use much more paper than we should and, believe it or not, the fax machine is still alive and functioning.”

Illawarra Medical Centre’s primary purpose

“Community and family are the cornerstone of human wellbeing and societal strength. They provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and shared values that help individual’s navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its many joys.

“The IMC family and the wide community we serve is built on a foundation of trust, collaboration, and respect.

“Our primary goal has always been to serve the healthcare needs of our demographic to the highest possible standard, while striving to create and maintain a positive work culture for our staff and contract doctors.

“It has been wonderful to see the practice acknowledged for this in recent years, through a number of accolades including RACGP WA Practice of the Year in 2019, RACGP GP Supervisor of the Year in 2022, and the Health and Wellbeing Services Award at his year’s Swan Chamber of Commerce and City of Swan Business Awards.

“At the end of the day, what we all want in life is to have made a difference. Making a difference – whether in someone’s life, our community, or the world – gives a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. Every small act of kindness or effort to leave things better than we found them contributes to that legacy.

The Illawarra Medical Centre Team

“Of course, none of this can be achieved without a team effort, and the Illawarra Medical Centre team are really like a family to me, in the truest sense of the word.

“Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the unwavering support of my wife and family and the very special privilege of working alongside my own daughter as a GP, who was only 12 when I started the practice.

“We have trained around 100 GP registrars, countless medical students, and handful of nursing students over the years and many of those registrars have stayed on and become part of the IMC fabric today.

“In fact, overall, just over half of our entire team has been with us for ten years or more, including seven out of our 15 doctors, one out of our five nurses, five out of our 10 receptionists, and three out of our five administration team.

“Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence has shaped not only our workplace, but also the lives of countless individuals that we’ve had the honour of serving.

“I am immensely grateful for the dedication, passion and loyalty that the team has brought to our practice and our patients over the years and the community is truly fortunate to have such remarkable people at IMC.

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past 30 years, it’s that when you’ve got a team like this, a community like ours, and just the right amount of caffeine – anything is possible!

The future

“In reflecting on the last 30 years, it’s been remarkable to see and appreciate just how far we’ve come, thanks to a lot of laughter, hard work, and always striving to make a difference.

“It’s also exciting to think about how much farther we’ll go and I look forward to keeping the adventure going!”

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Whooping cough cases reach epidemic proportions across Australia

walrus — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:41:10 +0000

Whooping cough has seen a significant rise in reported cases across Australia this year, with a 940% increase in recorded WA cases and a more than 1,600% increase in recorded cases nationally.

In this month’s blog, we take a look at why it has reached epidemic proportions, as well as the signs, symptoms and best ways of preventing this highly infectious disease.

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping Cough (or pertussis) is a highly infectious and potentially fatal bacterial infection that attacks the airways and causes uncontrollable coughing, as well as difficulty breathing.

It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is more contagious than influenza, measles or COVID-19. Whooping cough can be fatal in infants and cause serious illness in older children and adults, particularly those who are unvaccinated against the disease.

Whooping cough spreads easily from person to person via airborne droplets. When an infectious person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria is spread into the air and can then be inhaled by other people in close proximity.

Symptoms of Whooping Cough

Symptoms will normally appear 7 to 10 days after infection and include a mild fever, runny nose and cough. The cough will gradually develop into a hacking cough followed by whooping sound (hence the name, whooping cough).

The cough itself can be so severe that it causes vomiting, broken ribs and hospitalisation. It can also commonly lead to pneumonia.

Once the cough begins, people are usually contagious for 3 weeks. The cough, itself, can often last for 4 to 8 weeks or more; hence why it is often referred to as the 100-day cough.

Antibiotics are used to treat the infection. The main antibiotic usually prescribed for whooping cough is Azithromycin; however, as noted by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) this is currently in short supply in Australia, so your doctor may prescribe an alternative for treatment.

Why has there been such a large rise in cases this year?

As recorded in the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System, whooping cough cases have risen significantly in 2024, with 733 cases reported in WA compared to 78 cases in 2023. Nationally, the statistics are even more alarming, with 40,428 cases reported this year compared to 2,453 cases in 2023.

Epidemics of whooping cough are known to occur every three to four years, as part of the normal cyclical pattern of waning immunity that comes from a lack of exposure to the circulating infection over time. However, this year’s epidemic has already far surpassed the 20,118 cases of whooping cough reported in the last epidemic of 2016.

This can, in part, be explained by reduced exposure to the disease during the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns, social distancing and effective disease control measures were put in place across Australia.

Declining rates of immunisation, as highlighted in the latest report from Australia’s National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS), may also help to explain the significant rise in pertussis cases for 2024.

How to protect against whooping cough

Vaccination is the best protection for you and your family against the disease.

As noted by the NCIRS, the pertussis vaccine is only available in combination with diphtheria and tetanus. The dTPa vaccine forms part of the National Immunisation Program and is given routinely to infants at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months and 4 years of age, with a booster given to adolescents aged between 11-13.

A booster dose is also highly recommended for pregnant women and those aged 50 and 65 years of age.

Healthcare workers, early childhood educators and carers, and those in close contact with infants are also encouraged to get a booster every 10 years.

For more information on the whooping cough vaccine, visit the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

In addition to getting vaccinated, you can help to minimise the spread of the disease by practising good hygiene habits, including:

Avoiding contact with at-risk people, if you have any type of respiratory disease
Coughing and sneezing into your elbow, rather than your hand
Placing used tissues into a closed bin straight after use
Regularly washing your hands, especially after coughing or sneezing into them and before preparing food.

Vaccinations at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre provides a comprehensive immunisation service for all childhood and travel immunisations, and regularly stocks all the childhood immunisations that form part of the National Immunisation Program Schedule, including vaccinations for pertussis.

To make a vaccination appointment with one of our GPs, simply book online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care – https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/pertussis-whooping-cough
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/U_Z/Whooping-cough-pertussis
National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System – https://nindss.health.gov.au/pbi-dashboard/
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/health-topics/pertussis#tab=tab_1

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The importance of skin cancer checks

walrus — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 05:37:14 +0000

With National Skin Cancer Awareness Week coming up in November and the spring weather starting to warm up here in WA, now is a good time to consider getting your annual skin cancer check.

Skin cancer in Australia – the stats

Perth is one of the sunniest cities in the world, and with an annual average of eight hours of skin cancer accounts for the largest number of cancers diagnosed in Australia each year!

According to the Cancer Council of Australia, two in three Australian’s will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. The majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, two to three times that of Canada, the US and the UK.

Every year in Australia:

Skin cancers account for around 80% of all newly diagnosed skin cancers
GPs have over 1 million patient consultations per year for skin cancer
More than 2,000 people die from skin cancer.
Approximately 200 melanomas and 34,000 other skin cancer types per year are caused by occupational exposures.

What causes skin cancer?

Cancer is a disease of the cells that occurs when abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way and damage or invade the surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Skin cancer affects the body’s skin cells and is mainly caused by cumulative exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma – the most common but least dangerous form of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinomas generally develop on the head, neck and upper body. They appear as a pearly lump or a scaly, dry area that is pale or pink in colour. Basal Cell Carcinomas tend to grow slowly and don’t usually spread to other parts of the body.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – usually appear on areas of the skin that are most often exposed to the sun, including the head, neck, hands, forearms and lower legs. Squamous Cell Carcinomas often appear as a thickened, red, scaly lump and may look like a sore that hasn’t healed. They can grow quickly over several weeks or months and spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma – while it is the least common type of skin cancer, it is also the most serious. Melanomas are different to normal, healthy freckles and moles. They tend to have an irregular edge or surface and can be blotchy and black, brown, blue, red, white or light grey. Melanomas can grow quickly and become life threatening, spreading to other parts of the body.

While sun exposure is the main cause of skin cancer, other factors that can increase your risk of developing the disease include:

The total number of moles you have.
The number of atypical (dysplastic) naevi (moles) you have.
Your skin, hair and eye colour. Those with fair skin, blue or green eyes and/or fair or red hair at greater risk.
A depressed immune system.
A family history of skin cancer.

The good news is that over 95% of skin cancers can be treated if found early. Getting an annual skin check is one of the best ways to detect skin cancer early.

What is a skin check?

Skin cancer checks involve a simple examination that is completely painless and normally takes no longer than 30 minutes.

When undergoing a skin check, it’s important to remove any makeup, artificial tanner, or nail polish before your appointment, so that your doctor has a clear, unobstructed view of your skin.

You should also do a quick self-check to make note of any particular areas of concern and advise your doctor of these during your appointment. That includes any suspicious spots under your underwear, genital areas are not routinely examined and will only be checked by the doctor if you request them to do so.

During the skin check, you will be required to undress down to your underwear, so that the doctor can do a full body examination. This will include a check of your head, face, neck, torso, legs, feet, toes, arms, hands and fingers, for any suspicious skin lesions or moles.

Your doctor will examine your skin using a dermatoscope – a special skin microscope that allows them to see beneath the skin. If any suspicious spot is identified, your doctor will make a note of it and may take a photograph to be recorded and analysed.

They may also take a biopsy – a simple and quick procedure where part or all of the suspect spot is removed and sent to a laboratory for testing – or refer you to a specialist for further examination and treatment.

Who should get a skin cancer check?

As skin cancer can affect anyone, it is recommended those aged 15 years or more who have had exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation should get regular skin checks.

Some people are at greater risk of developing skin cancer, including those who:

have had skin cancer before, or have someone in their family who has had skin cancer
have previously had bad sunburn
have fair skin, light eyes, or red or fair hair
have many moles on your skin
spend a lot of time outdoors without sun protection or work outdoors
have used solariums or sun lamps
have a compromised immune system or are taking immunosuppression medicines

While the risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer during childhood is very low, a skin cancer check may be recommended for young children if:

there is a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma. Having a family history of skin cancer increases your own risk of developing the disease, no matter how old you are.
they have fair skin and a large number of moles. Having more than 100 moles puts children at higher-than-average risk for skin cancer.

How often should I get a skin cancer check?

In addition to regular self-checks, you should also see a doctor for a full-body skin examination at least once a year.

If you are at high-risk of skin cancer, your doctor may request that you have more frequent checks, depending on your risk factors.

How can I prevent skin cancer?

Knowing your own skin and getting regular skin checks are the best ways to prevent skin cancer.

Make sure you see your doctor as soon as possible if you notice anything different or unusual, such as:

A spot that is different from other spots on the skin.
A spot, mole or freckle that has changed in size, shape or colour.
A sore that doesn’t heal.
A spot that itches or bleeds.
A spot that is painful or swollen.

In the case of melanomas, follow the ABCDE rule and look closely for:

Asymmetry – where, if divided down the middle, the 2 halves of the spot are not a mirror image.
Border – spots with uneven borders and irregular edges.
Colour – spots with an unusual or uneven colour.
Diameter – spots that are wider than 6mm.
Evolving – where a spot or lesion has changed in size, shape, colour or texture over time.

Other simple measures you can take to prevent skin cancer include:

Wearing protective clothing in the sun.
Applying water-resistant SPF30 or higher sunscreen, at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapplying every two hours.
Wearing a broad-brimmed, bucket, or legionnaire-style hat.
Reducing outdoor time, particularly during the hottest part of the day, and staying in the shade when outdoors.
Wearing sunglasses that comply with Australian and New Zealand standards.

Get your skin checked at IMC

Illawarra Medical Centre offers a comprehensive range of dermatology services, including skin cancer checks, mole screening and general screenings, as well as skin cancer surgery and management, minor surgery and dermatological surgery.

Our very own Dr Dhruva Ramachandra runs regular skin cancer and dermatology checks at our practice on Tuesday mornings.

*Please note that any skin related matters discussed during a standard consult with Dr Ramachandran will incur an additional private fee, including those for children under 16 years old.

To make an appointment for one of our Tuesday skin clinics with Dr Ramachandran, contact our Reception on (08) 9208 6400.

To make a booking with any of our GPs to discuss any health concerns you may have, book online or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/skin-cancer-in-australia/summary
Cancer Australia – https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/affected-cancer/cancer-types/melanoma/what-melanoma
Cancer Council – https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/skin-cancer
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/skin-cancer-and-melanomas
Sun Smart – https://www.sunsmart.com.au
The Australasian College of Dermatologists – https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/skin-cancer-overview/

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Keeping women’s mental health in good shape

walrus — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 02:12:44 +0000

Statistically, females will experience poorer mental health than males, particularly when it comes to depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders.

Following on from Women’s Health Week earlier this month, we thought we’d look at the issues impacting on women’s mental health and ways to help keep your mental health in good shape.

What is mental health?

According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is defined as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

It’s essentially about our ability to maintain healthy relationships with others and to cope and function with the everyday trials, triumphs and challenges that life throws our way.

While the focus is often on keeping physically fit and healthy, good mental health is just as important to our overall health, wellbeing and quality of life.

What can affect a person’s mental health?

Mental health issues can affect anyone at any time and for a variety of reasons.

According to Health Direct, some of the most common issues that can impact on a person’s mental health include:

Relationship problems, separation and divorce
Financial stress
Work-related pressures
Unemployment or retirement
Physical illness
Social isolation
Pregnancy and birth of a baby
Drug and alcohol use
Death of a close friend or family member

These life events can cause a person to feel distressed and may impact on their day-to-day functioning and relationships.

While it’s common to experience ups and downs at various times throughout life, a continued or long-term feeling of distress and/or inability to function and maintain relationships with others is a cause for concern and could indicate a mental illness.

Just as with our physical health, the earlier we seek help for any mental health concerns, the better; particularly as mental health conditions are associated with poor physical health and premature death from suicide.

Women’s mental health – the stats

Overall, women and girls in Australia have poorer mental health than men and boys.

According to the National Mental Health Commission, around 1 in 6 women in Australia will experience depression and 1 in 3 women will experience anxiety during their lifetime. Postpartum depression impacts 1 in 6 women during their first year after birth. Females also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders at higher rates than males.

Recent research undertaken by the Liptember Foundation found that one in two (54%) of Australian women are currently experiencing mental health issues to some degree.

Some of the more prevalent mental health issues affecting women include:

Depression

Depression is the most prevalent mental health condition affecting women. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time.

For women who are pregnant or have recently given birth, they are also at risk of antenatal or post-natal depression (PND). PND impacts one in seven to 10 women within the first year after birth.

Signs and symptoms of depression can be physical, emotional and impact on the way you think. They can include:

Feeling sad, teary, anxious or irritable
Having negative thoughts about yourself and others
Feeling exhausted, guilty and/or angry a lot of the time
Lacking motivation and the ability to enjoy things you would normally find pleasure in
Changes in sleep quality (i.e. sleeping or waking up more than normal, or insomnia)
Loss of appetite or weight
Lack of interest in sex
Difficulty in concentrating or remembering things
Increased use of drugs and alcohol

Anxiety

Anxiety occurs when we have intense feelings of worry or distress that are difficult to control and start to interfere with our everyday lives, making it hard to cope with life’s ‘normal’ challenges.

Up to one-third of women and one-fifth of men will experience anxiety at some point in their lives.

Common signs and symptoms for anxiety include:

excessive fear or worry
trouble concentrating or making decisions
feeling irritable, tense or restless
experiencing nausea or abdominal distress
heart palpitations
sweating, trembling or shaking
trouble sleeping
having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom

For women, anxiety can often be exacerbated by the unique stressors they face throughout their lives, such as societal pressures around body image and social media, balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities, and hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a group of stress reactions that can develop after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, such as death, serious injury, natural disaster or sexual violence.

The main signs and symptoms of PTSD include:

re-experiencing the trauma
avoiding reminders of the event
negative changes in thoughts and mood after the trauma
feeling ‘on edge’ and overly aroused

For women, PTSD often stems from experiences with sexual violence, domestic abuse, and other traumatic events. According to the Liptember Report, PTSD has a higher prevalence amongst women aged 40 to 49 years old, those belonging to LGBTIQA+ or indigenous communities, and those who have faced homelessness/poverty or comorbidity in their lives.

Body Image Issues and Eating Disorders

Body image relates to the thoughts, feelings, attitudes and beliefs we have about our bodies and the way we look.

While it’s normal to have times where you feel unhappy or uncomfortable in your own body, it’s these feelings start to increase or intensify that can impact on your mental health and increase your risk of engaging in unhealthy and unhelpful behaviours around food, exercise and supplements.

For females, body image concerns are often fueled by unrealistic beaty standards portrayed in the media, online and through societal expectations. According to the Butterfly Foundation, around 90% of young people report some concern about their body image. Body image issues can also arise for women experiencing menopause, as their bodies change.

Body image issues can lead to eating disorders, which include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, unspecified feeding or eating disorder, disordered eating, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder and PICA.

Females are twice as likely to be affected by an eating disorder then males and, according to the National Mental Health Commission, 15% of women will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime.

Maintaining good mental health

There are a number of simple things you can do to help maintain your mental health. These include:

Stay connected – spend time with people who make you feel good. Staying connected with family, friends and the community can provide a sense of security, support and purpose.
Talk – if you are struggling with your mental health, talk about how you feel with people you trust, whether it be friends, family, co-workers, your GP or other health professional.
Listen – family and friends can play an important role by providing practical and emotional support to those struggling with their mental health, even if it’s just being there to listen. If you know someone who is having mental health issues, make sure you check in with them regularly.
Eat well – eating a healthy diet is not only good for your physical health, but can also help to give you a better overall sense of wellbeing.
Move more – keeping active can help you stay physically fit and mentally healthy and provides a healthy outlet for everyday stresses.
Cut back on drugs and alcohol – drugs and alcohol change the way your body and brain work and can cause symptoms of anxiety and depression or make an existing problem worse.
Get plenty of sleep – getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your mental health and physical wellbeing.

Need a little extra help?

The good news is that most mental illness can be effectively treated or managed and there are plenty of resources and services available for those who need a little extra help with their mental health.

Making an appointment with your GP is a good first step.

To make a booking with one of our GPs to discuss any mental health concerns you may have, contact us on (08) 9208 6400 or book online.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au
Black Dog Institute – https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
Butterfly Foundation – https://butterfly.org.au/
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness
Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au
Liptember Foundation – https://www.liptemberfoundation.org.au/2024-womens-mental-health-research
Mental Health Commission of WA – https://www.mhc.wa.gov.au/
Mental Health First Aid Australia – https://www.mhfa.com.au/women-and-mental-health-across-the-lifespan/
Think Mental Health, WA Mental Health Commission – https://www.thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/mental_health/en/

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Meningococcal B most prevalent strain in Australia

walrus — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:50:00 +0000

Meningococcal is a serious infection that can cause severe scarring, loss of limbs, brain damage and death. Most cases in Australia are due to the B serotype of the disease, with children less than 2 years of age and those aged 15-24 years at most risk of contracting the disease.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at meningococcal disease and how you can best protect yourself and your family.

What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is the result of a bacterial infection of the blood and/or membranes that line the spinal cord and brain.

The most common strains responsible for cases of infection are A, B, C, W, and Y and vaccinations for all these strains of the disease are available in Australia.

While the disease is relatively uncommon, and most people will recover completely with early antibiotic treatment, it can spread rapidly and become life-threatening for those infected.

Up to 10 per cent of cases result in a long-term disability, such as a loss of a limb or neurological damage and, in very rare cases, if left untreated, meningococcal infection can result in death.

Meningococcal in Western Australia

There have been an increasing number of cases reported in Western Australia this year, particularly for the B strain of the disease.

As at 20 August 2024, there have been seven cases of meningococcal disease reported in WA, comprising six serogroup B and one serogroup W.

Last year, there were 143 reported cases Australia-wide, up from 121 cases in 2022. So far this year, there have been 77 reported cases to date, with Serogroup B remaining the leading strain for meningococcal disease in Australia.

What are the symptoms?

One of the tricky things about meningococcal is that it can appear in different forms, depending on which part of the body the bacteria invade (meningitis– affecting the brain and spinal cord; and septicaemia– affecting the blood; or a combination of both).

People can also experience different symptoms. In general, some of the most common symptoms experienced include:

Fever
Headache
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Neck stiffness
Muscle or joint pains
Drowsiness or confusion
Fatigue
Sensitivity to light
Convulsions
Rapid breathing or panting
Cold hands and feet

In the later stages of the disease, a pinprick or purple bruise-like rash can develop. It is important to get this type of rash checked immediately by your doctor or emergency department.

Meningococcal disease is treated with antibiotics and the earlier the treatment commences, the better the chance of making a full recovery.

Who is at risk?

While up to one-fifth of people carry meningococcal bacteria in the back of their nose and throat, only a small number of people will develop an infection from the meningococcal bacteria.

Those at greatest risk of contracting the disease include babies and children up to the age of 5, due to their developing immune systems and tendency to put things in their mouths and share toys, food and drinks.

Those aged 15-24 years are also at a high risk, due to their social lifestyle, which generally includes more intimate activities such as kissing and sharing drinks.

Others at risk include those with a recent or current viral respiratory infection, smokers, those living in crowded living conditions and those with a weakened immune system.

Preventing meningococcal

Practising good hygiene can also help prevent against the disease; however, vaccination remains the best way to protect against meningococcal.

Unfortunately, there is no single vaccine available to protect against all strains of meningococcal disease; however, there are different vaccines available to help protect against the most common strains – A, B, C, W and Y.

With most cases of meningococcal in Australia resulting from the B serotype of the disease, vaccination against the B strain is only free through the National Immunisation Program for Aboriginal children aged less than two years old and people of all ages with certain health conditions.

Others can get the vaccine through private prescription from their GP.

Despite being free through the National Immunisation Program to only select groups, vaccination against meningococcal B is also strongly recommended for:

All infants and young children aged 2 or under
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 2-19 years old
Healthy adolescents aged 15-19 years old
Adolescents and young adults aged 15-24 years old, living in close quarters or who are current smokers
People with certain medical conditions
Travellers
Laboratory workers who frequently handle Neisseria meningitides

The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for:

children aged 12 months
Aboriginal children (may need additional doses)
Year 10 students through school-based vaccination programs. Catch up vaccinations are free for those aged 15-19 for missed vaccinations.
People of all ages with asplenia and hyposplenia, complement deficiency and those receiving treatment with eculizumab.

Book in for your vaccine at IMC

We regularly stock vaccines for all meningococcal strains at Illawarra Medical Centre. To book in for your meningococcal vaccine, make an appointment online or phone us on (08) 9208 6400.

If you have any concerns or questions, book in with your GP to discuss.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care – https://www.health.gov.au/diseases/meningococcal-disease-invasive
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care/National Communicable Disease Surveillance Dashboard – https://nindss.health.gov.au/pbi-dashboard/
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/J_M/Meningococcal-disease
Know Meningococcal – https://www.knowmeningococcal.com.au/
Meningococcal Australia – http://www.meningococcal.org.au
Meningitis Centre Australia – https://www.meningitis.com.au
National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance – https://ncirs.org.au/updated-fact-sheets-meningococcal-vaccines-australians-and-meningococcal-vaccines-faqs

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How stress can impact your health

walrus — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 03:39:01 +0000

Stress is a normal part of being human and something that we all experience when we are faced with a challenging situation or feel under pressure. While it can sometimes be a useful motivator and push us to get things done, experiencing too much or ongoing stress can affect our mental and physical health.

What is stress?

According to the World Health Organization, stress is defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.

It triggers a flight or fight response in the body, causing it to respond to the perceived threat by increasing our heartbeat, breathing rate and blood pressure. The longer you feel stressed, the greater the demand on your body and the amount of energy you use.

According to research from 2020 by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, more than half of Australians (59%) experienced at least one personal stressor over a 12 month period and those with a mental health or long-term health condition were more likely to experience stress over that same period of time (83% and 68% respectively).

While a little bit of stress is normal and can actually help us to perform our daily activities, too much can cause a range of physical and mental health problems. In fact, it can contribute to a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. We also know that stress is the main contributor to burnout.

While there are different triggers for different people, it is most commonly a result of external events, including:

Major life changes, such as a death in the family or divorce
Family illness or health problems
Issues at work, school or with finances and relationships

Symptoms

When stressed, your body releases certain hormones, such as adrenaline, which bring on physical changes to help you respond to the stressful situation.

It can cause physical, mental and behavioural reactions in the body, as it responds to the release of these hormones. Some of these symptoms include:

Headaches, aches and pains
Sleep disturbance
Fatigue
Upset stomach or diarrhoea
Anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control
Sudden outbursts of anger
Avoidance
Overeating or undereating
Alcohol, smoking, or drug abuse

People will react to stress differently, depending on their personality, attitude and approach to life. Knowing yourself and how you respond can help you understand what works for you in managing stress.

Experiencing stress over a long period of time or an ongoing basis can disrupt your body’s normal processes and increase your risk of a number of health problems, including:

Anxiety and depression
Digestive problems
Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke
Insomnia and sleep problems
Weight gain
Problems with memory and focus

That’s why it’s important to try to manage stress as best you can, when it arises.

Prevention

Being aware of when you’re feeling stressed is an important first step.

Other things you can do to help manage stress include:

Taking regular time-out to relax, including time each day to switch off from technology.
Exercising regularly – aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise 3 times a week.
Eating well – include plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoiding fatty and sugary foods.
Limiting alcohol.
Getting enough sleep each night.
Spending time with people who make you feel good about yourself.
Setting boundaries so that you are not overextending yourself.
Staying connected with colleagues, family and friends and encouraging open discussions about how you are feeling and what support you might need.
Having some fun and doing activities that make you feel happy, to keep balance in your life.

Concerned about your health?

It’s important to see your doctor if you:

Feel stressed often.
Experience particular things that stress you and feel beyond your control.
Believe your reactions to stress are extreme or worry you.
Feel anxious or depressed about stress.

If you have any concerns about your health or are feeling overwhelmed with burnout and stress, book in with one of our GPs to discuss your concerns. Appointments can be made online or by contacting us directly on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mental-health/stress-and-trauma
Better Health Channel – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/stress
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Good-mental-health-and-wellbeing
Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au/media/yxvnrqul/draft_ll-2pp-fact-sheet_life-pressures.pdf
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/stress

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Lung cancer – one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men

walrus — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:16:09 +0000

Lung cancer is one of the top five most common causes of death in Australian males, with close to 5,000 male deaths recorded in 2023 and more than 7,600 Australian men diagnosed with the disease that same year.

With Men’s Health Week recently focusing on the major health issues affecting males, we thought we’d take a closer look at lung cancer’s impact on men in this month’s blog.

What is Lung Cancer?

It occurs when abnormal cells in the lungs grow in an uncontrolled way and form a malignant tumour in the lung. Tumours that start in the lung are known as primary lung cancer. However, people can also develop secondary or metastatic lung tumours due to cancer that has spread from other parts of the body.

There are two types :

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) – which accounts for around 85% of cases and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell undifferentiated carcinoma.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) – which accounts for around 15% of cases. SCLC usually begins in the middle of the lungs and spreads more quickly than NSCLC.

As noted by Cancer Australia, lung cancer was the most common cause of death from cancer in 2021 and is expected to continue to be so over coming years.

Symptoms

In the early stages, symptoms may not be noticeable. In later stages of the disease, symptoms may include:

A new and persistent cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
Shortness of breath
Increased hoarseness, wheezing or changes to the voice
Chest or shoulder pain
Coughing or spitting up blood
A chest infection that lasts more than 3 weeks or keeps coming back
Enlarged fingertips
Abdominal and/or joint pain
Fatigue
Unintentional weight loss

These symptoms may not mean that you have the disease. However, if you do experience any of these symptoms, it is best to speak with your GP immediately to find out why they may be occurring. An early diagnosis will lead to better treatment outcomes.

Risk Factors

There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. These include:

Smoking tobacco or exposure to second-hand smoke.
A family history of the disease
Older age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 60
Significant exposure to certain substances, such as asbestos, radon or occupational substances such as arsenic, cadmium, nickel, diesel fumes and soot
Having and existing lung disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary tuberculosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Smoking is the number one risk factor for developing the disease and accounts for 85% of all cases.

Men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with lung cancer than women, due to their increased likelihood of smoking and occupational and environmental exposure to cancer-causing substances

According to Cancer Council Australia, smoking causes about 90% of this cancer in men and there is a 1 in 15 chance of a man being diagnosed with the disease before the age of 85.

Males are also more likely to use e-cigarettes or vapes. While there is currently no evidence that these cause lung cancer, Lung Foundation Australia notes that studies have found people who use e-cigarettes are more likely to start smoking tobacco cigarettes, which is the leading cause of lung cancer.

How is lung cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis is normally achieved using one or more of the following tests:

Blood tests
Imaging scans – including x-ray, CT scan, PET scan
Spirometry or lung function test
Biopsy
Sputum cytology

How is it treated?

There are a number of different treatment options available, depending on your prognosis and the progression and growth of the disease. Treatment options generally include:

Surgery
Radiation therapy
Thermal ablation
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Targeted therapy
Palliative care

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options available to you and recommend the best course of action.

To make a booking with one of our GPs to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your lungs or overall health in general, visit our Online Bookings page or contact us on (08) 9208 6400.

Where can I find out more information?

For more information on this topic, visit:

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/contents/overview-of-cancer-in-australia-2023
Cancer Australia – https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/lung-cancer/overview
Cancer Council – https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/lung-cancer
Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/lung-cancer
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/J_M/Lung-cancer
Lung Foundation Australia – https://lungfoundation.com.au/patients-carers/conditions/lung-cancer/overview/
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lung-cancer

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WA travellers to Bali warned to protect against dengue fever

walrus — Tue, 21 May 2024 02:59:38 +0000

Dengue fever is on the rise, with Western Australia recording twice the number of cases compared to the same time last year. With the majority of these cases having been acquired in Indonesia, Western Australians are being urged to take precautions against the disease when travelling to Bali.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at dengue fever and how you can best protect yourself when travelling to Indonesia and other locations where it is present.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a virus that is transmitted through a bite from two different types of mosquito – the Dengue mosquito and the Asian Tiger mosquito. The disease itself is caused by one of four dengue viruses carried by these mosquitos.

These mosquitos tend to be most active during the day and can be found inside and around buildings close to human habitation. The disease cannot be transmitted person to person.

Generally, a person will develop a lifelong immunity to the type of dengue virus they contract but will remain susceptible to the other types.

As noted by the World Health Organization, dengue fever has grown significantly in recent decades, from 505,430 cases reported in 2000 to a record high of over 6.5 million cases and 7,300 dengue-related deaths across 80 countries in 2023.

This rise in cases is thought to be a result of dengue fever carrying mosquitos spreading to more locations across the globe, combined with increasing global temperatures with higher rainfall and humidity, and increasing population movements.

So far this year, there have been 138 cases of dengue fever recorded in Western Australia; twice that of last year. The majority of these cases were acquired in Indonesia, which itself has recorded more than 60,000 cases so far this year.

Where else is dengue fever present?

Indonesia is not the only country where the disease exists, with dengue fever also highly prevalent in other parts of Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

While Asia accounts for around 70% of cases, the disease is also endemic in more than 100 countries across Africa, North and South America, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms for dengue fever will normally appear 3-14 days after being bitten and can often present like a bad case of the flu.

Symptoms include:

Fever
Headache
Pain behind the eyes
Chills
Swollen glands
Muscle and joint pain
Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
A faint red rash

The fever usually lasts around six days and most people will recover in about a week. However, the infection can become more serious and is potentially fatal. Severe symptoms can include:

Rapid breathing
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting and vomit with blood in it
Bleeding gums and/or unexpected bleeding
Restlessness

Babies, young children, and those who have previously had dengue fever are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms from the disease. If you feel particularly unwell and experience severe symptoms, phone 000 and request an ambulance for urgent assistance.

What treatments are available?

Unfortunately, there are no specific treatments available for dengue fever, other than to get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and take paracetamol to reduce fever. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can increase your risk of bleeding.

If you experience severe symptoms, you may be required to go to hospital for intravenous fluids to replace lost electrolytes.

The good news is that most people will fully recover within a week or two.

How can I best protect myself?

There is no vaccine available for dengue fever in Australia. The best way to avoid the disease is to protect yourself against mosquito bites as best you can by:

Wearing long, loose fitting clothing that covers your skin, including socks and closed in shoes.
Applying insect repellent first thing in the morning and one that contains DEET, picaridin, or Oil of Eucalyptus Lemon.
Reapplying insect repellent regularly to exposed skin.
Using an insecticide, such as permethrin, on your clothes and bedding.
Covering your bed with a mosquito net.
Keeping your windows closed and staying in air-conditioned accommodation with flyscreens on the windows.
Requesting your room be sprayed for mosquitos if you notice them.
Avoiding areas with lots of mosquitos and booking your travels for the dry season.
Researching your holiday destination and its potential health risks.

If you become sick when you return, book in with your doctor and advise them of your recent travels. A blood test will determine whether you have dengue fever or not and early diagnosis of the disease will help to reduce the risk of complications.

To make an appointment at Illawarra Medical Centre, contact us on (08) 9208 6400 or book online. As a member of the Travel Medicine Alliance (TMA), we provide a range of travel health services including:

Follow up advice and treatment of dengue fever and any other illnesses you may have obtained while travelling overseas.
Comprehensive consultations on your travel plans and health requirements, including recommended vaccinations and boosters for your travel destination.
Travel vaccinations, of which we carry the full range of travel vaccines at our practice. This includes vaccines for measles, hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, malaria, tetanus, cholera and influenza.
Visa application health checks.
Travel medical kits.

Find out more on our Travel Health page.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Better Health Victoria – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/Dengue-virus-disease

Department of Health, WA – https://www.health.wa.gov.au/Media-releases/2024/May/Dengue-fever-warning-for-Western-Australian-travellers

Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dengue-fever

Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/News/2024/Dengue-fever-risk-for-travellers

World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma

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Asthma affects 1 in 10 Australians

walrus — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 06:35:12 +0000

Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions affecting Australians, with 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 9 children diagnosed with the disease. While the number of Australians affected has remained relatively steady, there has been a concerning increase in the number of deaths from the disease in recent years.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of asthma.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a long-term lung disorder that affects the small airways, which are called bronchioles.

When someone has asthma, their lung’s airways will either tighten (due to the thin layer of muscle in the airway contracting), thicken (due to inflammation and swelling, creating less space to breathe through), or fill up with mucus; or a combination of all three.

It can affect people of all ages and is most common in those who have family members with asthma, hay fever, or allergies. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) females are more affected than males, except for in children under the age of 14, where it is more common in boys than girls.

Asthma can be allergic or non-allergic and attacks may be brought on by certain triggers, including allergens, infections, exercise, cold air, changes in temperature and cigarette smoke.

Attacks can happen in people whose symptoms are normally mild or well controlled and serious attacks need urgent medical attention, as they can be deadly.

While deaths from the disease decreased during COVID lockdowns, there has been a significant increase in asthma related deaths since restrictions were lifted. As noted by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), a total of 467 deaths were recorded in Australia in 2022, which is a 32% increase on the 355 deaths recorded in 2021.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person and can differ for individuals over time.

However, the most common symptoms are:

Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.
Wheezing when breathing out.
A tight and heavy feeling in the chest.
A continuing cough, particularly at night.
Wheezing or coughing with exercise or exercise induced asthma.

If left untreated, it can negatively impact a person’s quality of life and result in:

Fatigue and exhaustion
Poor sleep
Being less productive at work or school
Not being able to exercise or be as physically active as you would like
Reduced lung function
Poor mental health

Asthma can quickly develop into an emergency situation, particularly if:

your symptoms get worse very quickly;
you suddenly find it hard to breathe, have severe shortness of breath, can’t speak normally or comfortably, and/or your lips look blue;
you have constant coughing and wheezing or feel a tightness in your chest; and
you get little or no relieve from your asthma reliever inhaler

If you experience or notice someone with any of the above, please call 000 immediately and request an ambulance for an ASTHMA EMERGENCY.

The National Asthma Council of Australia has some great Asthma First Aid resources available on how to assist in an asthma emergency>>

Management

While it can’t be cured, it can be effectively managed with an Asthma Action Plan, developed in consultation with your GP.

The Asthma Action Plan is essentially an instruction manual for how to best manage your asthma and what to do if you do develop symptoms or have an attack. The plan has four main sections, including:

How to look after your condition daily.
What to do if your experience flares up.
What to do if your flare-up becomes severe.
What to do in an emergency.

It is recommended you review your plan every 6-12 months.

The National Asthma Council of Australia has some good examples of Asthma Action Plans available and this video from Asthma Australia provides a good overview on the importance of having a plan in place>>

Depending on the severity and known triggers for your asthma, your GP may recommend a number of treatment options, including intranasal corticosteroid sprays, non-sedating antihistamines, combination medications and allergen immunotherapy.

As part of your management, your GP may recommend using an inhaler, which is the most common treatment for asthma and delivers medication directly into the lungs.

There are two main types of inhalers available:

Relievers – generally used to open your airways quickly and relieve symptoms during an attack. Ventolin is the most commonly used reliever.
Preventers/Controllers – anti-inflammatory medicines containing corticosteroids that usually come in an inhaler form, though oral corticosteroids may be used in some instances. Preventers generally need to be used every day to help prevent flare ups and symptoms.

Prevention

While asthma cannot be completely prevented, there are steps you can take to help reduce your risk, including:

Get vaccinated – ensure you stay up-to-date with influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, as respiratory viruses can often be a trigger.
Avoid known allergies – allergies are another major trigger, so treating your allergies and avoiding any known allergy triggers will also help to reduce your risk.
Stay away from smoking – smoking can increase your symptoms and result in more frequent and severe attacks, as well as less benefit from some asthma medications. If you are asthmatic and a non-smoker, you should also try to avoid exposure to second hand smoke.
Maintain a healthy weight – being overweight and obese can make asthma harder to manage.
Look after your mental wellbeing – there is a link between mental health and asthma, so looking after your mental wellbeing is important in managing your condition.
Use your medicines properly – make sure you know how to use your preventers and relievers properly. If in doubt, visit Asthma Australia’s comprehensive guide on how to use your asthma devices to ensure effective treatment.

Worried about your asthma?

Then book an appointment with one on our GPs to discuss your concerns. Our doctors will work with you to develop an Asthma Action Plan and work out the best treatment options for you.

Bookings can be made online or by contacting us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Asthma Australia – https://asthma.org.au/

Australian Bureau of Statistics – https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/asthma/latest-release

Health Direct – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/asthma

Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Health-conditions/Asthma

National Asthma Council Australia – https://www.nationalasthma.org.au/

World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma

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Vaccines now available for RSV prevention

walrus — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:35:10 +0000

New vaccines have recently been approved for use in older adults and young children to prevent Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), with Western Australian babies being the first to be offered access to a new vaccine to help prevent this leading cause of infant hospitalisation in Australia.

In this month’s blog, we take a closer look at RSV and the new vaccines that will be available for infants and adults in 2024.

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (or RSV) is a common virus that usually presents as a mild respiratory infection and can affect people of all ages.

The virus infects the airways and lungs and commonly causes coughs and colds during winter. Symptoms include:

Fever
Runny nose
Headache
Sneezing
Coughing
Wheezing

It can also cause ear infections. While RSV mostly presents as a mild infection, it can lead to life-threatening complications, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

The virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through respiratory droplets released into the air by an infected person coughing, sneezing or talking; or through people touching contaminated surfaces and transferring the virus to their eyes, nose or mouth. It can also spread through hand-to-hand contact with an infected person.

Who is most at risk?

Young children are at a high risk of serious illness from RSV, with 3.6 million children worldwide hospitalised with the virus every year. In Western Australia in 2023, 993 infants were hospitalised with RSV.

In general, four out of every five children hospitalised with RSV will have no underlying health conditions. Aboriginal infants are hospitalised with the virus at 2-3 times the rate of non-Aboriginal infants.

Almost all children will experience at least one RSV infection within their first two years of life.

Those most at risk of serious complications include:

Infants aged 12 months and under – especially those aged 6 months and under.
Children aged 2 years and under with medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease.
Children aged 2 years and under who were born pre-term or with a low birth weight.

Older adults are also at a higher risk of RSV, particularly:

adults with medical risk factors – including those who are immunocompromised or who have chronic cardiac, respiratory and neurological conditions, diabetes and metabolic disorders, or renal disease; and
those aged 75 years and over for non-First Nations adults, or 60 years and over for First Nations adults.

How do you prevent RSV?

The best way to help prevent the spread of the virus is by:

Maintaining good personal hygiene by washing hands often with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
Avoiding sharing of eating and drinking utensils.
Staying home when sick, or wearing a mask when leaving the house and avoiding close contact with others.
Regularly cleaning surfaces and items that may be contaminated with disinfectant.

Are there vaccines available?

Up until this year, there were no vaccines available in Australia to help prevent RSV. However, in January 2024, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved Australia’s first vaccine to help fight against the virus.

The Arexvy vaccine is an adjuvanted recombinant RSV vaccine that can be administered as a single dose and given at any time of year. It is available for adults aged 60 years and over through private prescription only. It is highly recommended for:

All adults aged 75 years and over.
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 60 to 74 years.
Adults aged 60 to 74 years with medical conditions that increase their risk of severe disease.

Earlier this month, and in an Australian first, the Western Australian (WA) Government also announced the rollout of a new RSV vaccine for infants.

The Nirsevimab (or Beyfortus) vaccine was approved by the TGA in November 2023 and will be offered free to all WA babies under eight months old, as well as older children aged 8-19 months at increased risk of severe RSV. This RSV vaccine is given as a single dose and provides protection for at least five months. It is expected to be available from April onwards through GP practices, Community Health Clinics, and Aboriginal Medical Services.

As noted by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance Australia, clinical trials of the Nirsevimab vaccine showed a reduction in RSV-related infant hospitalisations of around 80%, with similar trends observed in Europe last year following the rollout of their infant immunisation programs.

Another vaccine – Abrysvo – is also currently being evaluated as an option for pregnant women in Australia to help protect their unborn babies. This RSV vaccine has already been approved for use in the United States of America. Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that, when given to pregnant women, the vaccine was 81.8% effective in preventing severe disease within 90 days of birth and 69.4% effective in preventing severe disease within 180 days of birth.

Are vaccines safe?

Yes. Vaccines given in Australia are perfectly safe and you cannot get the virus from having the relevant vaccine.

Like any vaccine, it is possible that some people may experience a reaction; however, the risk of the vaccines causing serious harm is very low.

As noted by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance Australia, side effects for the Nirsevimab RSV vaccine were uncommon in clinical trials, with the most common side effects experienced being pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, or a rash.

Similarly, reported common side effects for Arexvy were pain and redness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain.

In Australia, all vaccines must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the TGA. We also have a national program – AusVaxSafety – that monitors the type and rate of reactions to all vaccines on the National Immunisation Program.

At Illawarra Medical Centre, we utilise the SmartVax system as an additional vaccine safety measure for our patients. SmartVax uses SMS and smartphone technology to actively monitor vaccine safety in real time and feeds that information into the AusVaxSafety program.

Vaccinations at IMC

We will notify our patients as soon as RSV vaccines become available at Illawarra Medical Centre, so keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for details!

In the meantime, should you have any other vaccine requirements or health issues you wish to discuss, book an appointment with one of our GPs. Bookings can be made online or by contacting us on (08) 9208 6400.

For more information on this topic, visit:

Government of Western Australia – https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook-Labor-Government/Western-Australian-children-first-to-access-protection-from-RSV-20240305
Healthy WA – https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/N_R/Respiratory-syncytial-virus
National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance Australia – https://ncirs.org.au/ncirs-fact-sheets-faqs-and-other-resources/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-frequently-asked
World Health Organization – https://www.who.int/teams/health-product-policy-and-standards/standards-and-specifications/vaccine-standardization/respiratory-syncytial-virus-disease

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