Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred

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Latest advice on hospital and health services

Ex-tropical cyclone Alfred and the associated flooding is not impacting West Moreton Health services across the region.

Public health advice is still current.

Hospital operations and planned care

All hospitals, health facilities, and emergency departments are operating as normal.

If your appointment or clinic has changed, our staff will contact you. There is no need to contact the hospital.

Need medical advice?

Staying safe and prepared

Stay away from flood water

Stay away from floodwater. It is dirty, dangerous and can make you sick.

Sharks, snakes and spiders have been seen in floodwater, along with sharp objects and flood debris.

Floodwater is often contaminated by human waste (poo) from overflowing sewerage or septic systems, and by agricultural or industrial wastes and chemicals.

There is a higher risk of infection by coming into contact with polluted water or soil.

You could end up with diarrhoea and vomiting, wound infections, dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and serious diseases like leptospirosis.

You could also be injured by animal bites or physical hazards lurking beneath the water.

To avoid infection:

  • Wear solid boots or shoes (not thongs) if you must enter shallow water.
  • Wear gloves when handling items contaminated by floodwater.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after contact with floodwater or soil.
  • Wash any household items or areas, including hard surfaces like floors or paved areas, that were contaminated by floodwater.

Medical devices and power outages

If you have a powered medical device, that might be affected by a power outage, make sure you charge it and have backup batteries ready.

If losing power to your device results in a medical emergency, go to a nearby hospital immediately if you lose power.

If it is not a medical emergency, and you just need power to charge your medical device, use all other options first. The hospital should be the last option for this circumstance.

More information on powered medical devices and disasters is available.

Mental health and wellbeing

It is normal to experience a range of emotions if you are affected by a disaster.

It is important to know the difference between a common reaction to a stressful or traumatic event and the signs you should seek more support.

Further information is available on how to care for your mental health.

You can also access information and resources to help young children and families prepare for a natural disaster.

Additional information