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31 December 2004 Advice for people returning from tsunami-affected regions
NSW Health has today issued the following advice for travellers returning from countries affected by the tsunamis. People may have been exposed to a number of infections while in a tsunami-affected area. These illnesses may occur within a few days, or, more rarely may take several weeks or months to appear. It is recommended that you see your family doctor if you develop any of the symptoms listed below or other symptoms that concern you. Be sure to tell the doctor that you have been in a tsunami-affected area. If required, the doctor can get further advice from infectious diseases specialists or their local public health unit (phone numbers are listed in the White Pages under "Health"): § Infection of any cuts or skin abrasions acquired while overseas. § Diarrhoea - see a doctor immediately if you are unable to keep fluids down, or have fever, bloody diarrhoea, or large amounts of watery diarrhoea § Vomiting, particularly if occurs with fever § Chills or fever more than 37.5 degrees § Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain (especially if immersion in water occurred, or water spray exposure, e.g., helicopter evacuation) § Sore, red eyes § Muscle aches and pains § Severe headache § Rash § Unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite § Jaundice (yellow discoloration of eyes and / or skin), dark urine or pale stools. Make sure you are up to date with your tetanus immunisation, particularly if you have cuts or abrasions. Malaria is common in Asia - if you are taking tablets against malaria make sure you complete your course of medication. NOTE that malaria tablets do not absolutely guarantee protection from malaria, even if you have taken your tablets as directed. For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au |
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