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Health News

Pharmacists ready with Moderna boosters but services must be sustainable

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Pharmacists ready with Moderna boosters but services must be sustainable

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) welcomes the announcement that Moderna’s SPIKEVAX vaccine has been provisionally approved as a booster dose for Australians aged 18 years and above.

Yesterday, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) confirmed that a second vaccine will be available for the National Booster Program.

PSA National President, A/Prof Chris Freeman, acknowledged further enablement of the pharmacist workforce.

“With the National Booster Program well underway, this move is timely – one that provides Australians with greater vaccine choice in the lead up to early 2022 when the majority of the population becomes eligible for their booster dose.

“This announcement, coupled with Monday’s provisional approval of Pfizer for Australians aged 5-11 years, marks a week of significant progress in the pandemic response and PSA commends the Government’s approach to making these decisions.

“This development now means that the potential number of pharmacists offering booster vaccinations across Australia has more than doubled, accounting for those already participating in the Moderna program.

“However, it is imperative that pharmacists are paid fairly, and at least equally to other providers, otherwise the provision of this critical service is not sustainable. With 2.3 million children becoming eligible for vaccination, extra consultation time will be required to undertake appropriate assessment and consenting, placing further strain on service sustainability.

“Pharmacists have already administered over 2.5 million vaccinations to Australians, and as mass vaccination hubs continue to downscale their operations over the coming months, pharmacists will become an even more critical part of the vaccination strategy,” he said.

PSA is dedicated to supporting Australian pharmacist immunisers through the National Booster Program and will continue to work closely with the TGA and ATAGI to ensure pharmacists are equipped with the most up-to-date advice regarding vaccine safety and effectiveness.

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$1 million to invest in women’s health, wellbeing and empowerment

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The latest round of the Investing in Women Funding Program is now open.

$1 million to invest in women’s health, wellbeing and empowerment

 

The latest round of the Investing in Women Funding Program opens today, with up to $1 million available to organisations to fund projects that advance the role, status and contribution of women and girls in NSW.

Eligible organisations can apply for grants of between $25,000 and $100,000 for annual projects, or up to $250,000 for multi-year projects. Funding is open to registered not-for-profits, local councils and private sector industry bodies working in partnership with communities and government.

Projects should aim to have lasting impacts on communities of women and girls in the areas of health and wellbeing, and participation and empowerment.

House to Grow, a not-for-profit, was one of 22 organisations that received funding under the program in 2023. It used its $50,000 grant to provide a space for women to ignite their business ideas and kickstart their projects into market opportunities. Female entrepreneurs were also supported with business education.

Additionally, Surfing NSW received almost $100,000 to work with 53 affiliated Surf Schools across NSW to identify and provide a nationally accredited coaching certification, on-the-job training, mentorship and employment to 150 women. This boosted the number of women in the coaching network in regional areas and increased the opportunities for part-time and flexible work options to match the growing demand of those wishing to engage with surfing.

The Investing in Women Funding Program grant applications open 5 March 2024 and close 8 April 2024. For more information on the grant program and details on how to apply, visit here.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government is committed to improving the lives of women and girls across the state. Through the Investing in Women Funding Program, we are working in partnership with organisations to deliver on the NSW Women’s Strategy 2023-2026 to boost women’s economic opportunities and advancement, promote their health and wellbeing and support participation.

“This program is for women of all backgrounds and really sets the foundation for success for generations to come.

“Over the years, more than 100 organisations have received grants under the Investing in Women funding program and have used that funding to help women overcome barriers and empower them to take charge and achieve their aspirations.

“I urge eligible organisations to get their grant applications in and play a part in contributing to these important goals.

The latest round of the Investing in Women Funding Program is now open.

The latest round of the Investing in Women Funding Program is now open.

CEO at House to Grow Pilar Lopez said:

“We have enrolled over 200 women from different backgrounds so far in our Watering Women’s Tree Program, including participants with original ideas and other start-ups ready to grow.

“Our holistic accelerator program has played a significant role in the creation and development of more than 100 businesses in NSW, with some now operating on an international scale.

“The flexibility of this project has enabled women with family commitments, those with casual jobs or studying to pursue their projects, contributing to strengthening the female entrepreneurial fabric but is also fostering women’s leadership development and creating more sustainable women-led businesses and families.

“Our project aims to empower women entrepreneurs, enhancing their independence and security but also reducing risks such as exploitation and vulnerability to violence, thereby building a sustainable future for themselves and their families.”

Surfing NSW spokesperson Kathy Walton said:

“Through Surfing NSW’s coaching certification program, we’re proud to significantly enhance gender equality in surfing. By accrediting and mentoring women, we’re not just increasing female representation; we’re inspiring a new generation of women and girls to embrace surfing, both recreationally and professionally.

“Our initiative opens new doors for women in the surfing industry, offering them both training and employment opportunities to develop their life-saving and ocean education skills, and our programs have particularly been focused on the growth of regional surfing communities.

“Sadly 86 people have drowned in Australia since December 2023. Empowering 150 women with Surfers Rescue 24/7 techniques, CPR, First Aid and trauma response is at the heart of our organisation and programs. This not only upskills them as coaches but also equips them to save lives in and out of the ocean, enhancing safety within the surfing community.”

 

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North Coast community urged to protect themselves from mosquitoes

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mosquitoes North Coast

North Coast community urged to protect themselves from mosquitoes

 

The North Coast community and visitors to the region are being urged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites after recent detections of mosquito borne viruses during surveillance.

North Coast Public Health Unit Associate Director Robin Auld said the detections, combined with an expected seasonal increase in mosquito numbers, have increased the community’s risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases.

“Mosquitoes in the NSW North Coast can carry viruses which can lead to debilitating illness in humans, such as Ross River and Barmah Forest,” Mr Auld said.

“Mosquitoes thrive in wet, warm conditions like much of the North Coast is currently experiencing.

“The trapping program has detected Ross River virus in Ballina and Byron Bay local government areas. The best way to avoid these mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.

“While we are not seeing large numbers of notifications for illnesses just yet, we expect this to rise over the coming weeks as the mosquito numbers increase over the annual peak season.”

Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses may cause unpleasant symptoms ranging from tiredness, rash, headache, and sore and swollen joints that can last several weeks.

More serious disease can be found in NSW, particularly west of the ranges, such as Murray Valley Encephalitis, Kunjin and Japanese Encephalitis, so wherever you are, its wise to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

mosquitoes North Coast

The North Coast community and visitors to the region are being urged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites after recent detections of mosquito borne viruses during surveillance.

People are encouraged to take actions to prevent mosquito bites:

  • Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times.
  • Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent.
  • Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks.
  • Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units, and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas).
  • Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps.
  • Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions and safety precautions.
  • Protect infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges.

While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net. For more information, visit the NSW Health website.

 

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Breakthrough Australian Research Offers New Hope in Bowel Cancer Fight

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Bowel Cancer

Breakthrough Australian Research Offers New Hope in Bowel Cancer Fight

 

Bowel cancer stands as a formidable adversary in Australia, ranking second among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. The grim statistics reveal that 1 in 14 individuals, regardless of gender, will grapple with this disease by the age of 85. While individuals aged between 50 and 74 face heightened risk, a concerning trend emerges with an increasing number of younger Australians being diagnosed, with 1 in 9 new cases emerging in those under 50.

Despite claiming over 100 lives weekly, the disease harbors a ray of hope – around 90% of cases can be effectively treated if detected early.

In a ground-breaking development, Australian National University (ANU) researchers have unveiled a revolutionary discovery that promises to revolutionise early detection strategies for bowel cancer. At the heart of their pioneering work lies an immune system protein known as Ku70, poised to redefine the landscape of cancer diagnostics and treatment.

Lead researcher Dr. Abhimanu Pande sheds light on the pivotal role of Ku70, describing it as a molecular sentinel capable of identifying cellular distress signals indicative of damaged DNA – a precursor to cancerous transformation. Through a strategic combination of novel and existing drugs, researchers can activate Ku70, effectively transforming it into a vigilant guardian capable of neutralising cancer cells by cooling them off and purging damaged DNA.

Professor Si Ming Man, also from ANU, emphasises the potential implications of this discovery in revolutionising bowel cancer screening methodologies. By assessing Ku70 levels in pre-cancerous polyps, clinicians can potentially intercept cancerous transformation at its nascent stage, thereby enhancing prognosis and treatment outcomes.

Bowel Cancer

Bowel Cancer

The research community underscores the significance of early detection and treatment in combating not only bowel cancer but also other malignancies. Professor Man urges individuals of all ages to remain vigilant, advocating for heightened awareness of bowel cancer symptoms and proactive screening initiatives.

As the ANU spearheads efforts to elevate cancer awareness and bolster prevention, detection, and treatment strategies, the promise of their research looms large on the horizon, offering renewed hope in the relentless fight against cancer.

Check for early signs

The symptoms of bowel cancer can be easy to miss, but they may include:

  • Bleeding from the rectum (back passage), or blood in your stools (faeces)
  • A recent, ongoing change in bowel habits – for example, looser stools, constipation, more frequent trips to the toilet, or stools that are narrower than usual
  • Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Unexplained tiredness (which may also be due toanaemia).

If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor. In particular, bleeding from the rectum should never be ignored. Health Direct has a symptom checker here. Under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, Australians aged between 50 and 74 receive a free bowel screening test every two years.  

 

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