Townsville HHS urged residents to prepare for cyclone season

With the start of the official cyclone season just around the corner, the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has urged everyone to make health and wellbeing preparedness one of their top priorities.

The season officially starts on Friday, 1 November and the Bureau of Meteorology has warned more severe cyclones could impact Australia this season.

Public health director Dr Steven Donohue said now was the time to start getting your medications and first-aid kits ready.

“Cyclone season in north Queensland can bring unpredictable weather and potential disruptions to healthcare access and it is important everyone is as prepared as possible for a disaster,” Dr Donohue said.

“Taking proactive steps now can help safeguard your health and the health of your loved ones.

“If you are using any specific medication then it is crucial you have an adequate supply of it and scripts are readily available.

“Contact your GP to arrange refills and avoid any gaps in your treatment.

“Make sure your disaster kit includes a well-stocked first aid kit which is easily accessible and includes spare essential medications in original packaging along with bandages and antiseptic solutions.”

Dr Donohue said it was also important people had a plan for dealing with their mental health during a disaster situation.

“Natural disasters like cyclones can be stressful events and it's vital people have a plan in place on how to manage anxiety and connect with mental health supports if needed,” he said.

“Cyclones have the potential to cause flooding and it is important vulnerable people stay out of contaminated water and mud.

“By taking some simple steps now people are not only prioritising their own health but also contributing to the overall community resilience.”

The messaging comes as Townsville HHS has spent the last few months ramping up preparations for the upcoming cyclone season.

Chief executive Kieran Keyes said it was vital facilities like Townsville University Hospital remained operational during an event.

“Throughout the year the HHS has been working across its 21 facilities to ensure they are as prepared as possible for a significant event,” Mr Keyes said.

“Sites like Townsville University Hospital have six large-scale generators ready to supply power to the facility.

“We are also able to double our food storage and significantly increase our medical supplies with little notice and we have been involved in training with the Townsville Local Disaster Management Group to further hone our skills.

“Having our hospital and health services operational during a disaster is critical and every year we go through a strict process to ensure we are ready for the next significant event that could impact our region.”

For more information on preparing yourself and your home for a disaster go to getready.qld.gov.au.