Big things are happening - Managing Director, Georgina Twomey
September was a busy month in North Queensland. School holidays have just come to an end and the kids are already getting excited for Halloween. Meanwhile the adults are starting the preparation for Christmas and end of year festivities.
It is encouraged to stay up to date on your vaccinations and on the health advice from the Queensland Government. It is projected that a spike in covid/ influenza cases may arise around December. It comes as no surprise as large gatherings tend to occur around this time of year. Our Pharmacies are here to help counteract this as much as possible.
As primary healthcare workers, we are working hard to deliver the needs of our local community and visitors. We are doing our best to reflect the needs of customers and appreciate your patience as things get busy and illness occasionally strikes down staff. Vaccination programs are still up and running in stores and masks, hand sanitiser, and RATS are in stock.
Our teams are dedicated to listening to and acting upon your needs as patients and increased cost of living and the affordability of medicines. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and community pharmacies successfully advocated this to the Federal Government last month. There will be a reduction in the cost medication and filling your prescription will become a little bit easier. The campaign will kick-off in 2023 and we’re excited to see more Australians having access to their essential medicines.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia also announced the North Queensland Pharmacy Pilot (2023). This may allow Pharmacy Practitioners to offer treatment for some medical conditions and minor ailments.
On another note, we advise you to stay hydrated over the coming months. Summer is sneaking up on us and the humidity of living in North Queensland means our bodies can become dehydrated a lot quicker than cooler, dry places. The easiest way to identify if you are dehydrated is if your urine is dark than usual.
When you don’t drink enough fluids, your brain signals the release of a hormone called antidiuretic. This substance will signal your body to retain more water than usual which means that the small amount of water you are drinking is channelled directly into your body to keep it healthy.
You may also notice the heat causes you to sweat more. This is the bodies behavioural response in attempt to control its internal temperature. Drinking water will help the body replenish any water lost and ensure your it can regulate your temperature efficiently.
Sweat can cause bacteria to build-up on the skin and trigger pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Removing sweat and oils with a gentle cleanser can combat acne. Products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid or tee tree can prove useful. Or ask your GP about over the counter products containing Benzoyl Peroxide. Enjoy the start of summer and remember to stay hydrated!
- G