http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news Keep up to date with Toi Te Ora's latest news and events. en-US http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/641 People can now access affordable, quality fruit and vegetable packs from Garden Fresh, Opotiki. Starting from Monday, May 6th, Garden Fresh will take ‘Kai @ the Right Price’ orders from customers throughout the week for pick up on Thursdays. There are two different sized fruit and vegetable packs to choose from at either $15 or $20. Each pack has a variety of seasonal fruit and vegetables and comes in a sturdy, reusable eco-bag. Kai @ the Right Price is a community based project supported by Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service. The project aims to help families get their recommended daily intake of fresh fruit and vegetables for a reasonable price. The benefits of eating fruit and vegetables are many. They contain a large number of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients required to enable optimum growth and development and maintain health. “Kai at the Right Price will help Opotiki whanau get their weekly fruit and veg for a good price,” says Brad Bluett, Health Improvement Advisor. Come down to Garden Fresh on launch day – Monday May 6th as the first 10 customers will get a free $15 voucher when they place an order! “We’re really excited to be able to provide the packs to our customers,” says owner and operator of Garden Fresh, John Waddington. “If you would like to order a pack, come into the store and see Ruby or myself,” says John. There will be in-store promotions and healthy recipes and tips included in the bags each week during the 3 month trial. “If the Opotiki community supports ‘Kai@ the Right Price’ the produce packs will continue to be available from Garden Fresh after the trial ends in August. So support Kai @ the Right Price and phone Garden Fresh on 315 7486 with your weekly order today,” says Brad. For more information about the project visit www.ttophs.govt.nz/kai Tue, 30 April 2013 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/641 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/638 There was extensive surface flooding across the coastal Bay of Plenty over the weekend. “We can assume that all flood water is potentially contaminated with farm run-off, faecal matter from feral and domestic animals, and, in some cases, sewage,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Phil Shoemack. There are potential health risks associated with contaminated flood water and the Medical Officer of Health has provided the following advice to help prevent illness in the community. Where a home, office, or retail premise has been affected by flood water above floor level all soft furnishings will need to be effectively decontaminated or disposed of. This includes carpets, curtains, furniture, and any other fittings. In some cases thorough cleaning followed by exposure to sunlight will be sufficient, but some furnishings and fittings will have to be thrown out. If any food was affected by flood water, or fridges or freezers were left without power for more than a couple of hours, this food will need to be thrown out. Any food premises will have to take extra care to ensure everything is decontaminated. The same problem of contaminated flood waters means that people should avoid all recreational water contact with rivers and harbours or estuaries till later in the week. Shellfish beds throughout the coastal Bay of Plenty will also be affected. Because of the way most shellfish filter their food from the water in which they live they are likely to all carry higher than acceptable levels of microbes, including bacteria and viruses, for some time. A 2009 study showed that once shellfish in Tauranga Harbour were contaminated with Norovirus it takes up to three months for the shellfish to completely shed the virus. Additionally, there is already a health warning in place against the collection of shellfish throughout the Western Bay of Plenty due to continuing high levels of paralytic shellfish toxins. So anyone deciding to eat locally harvested shellfish is taking a significant risk that they will become ill. Tue, 23 April 2013 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/638 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/627 Bay of Plenty residents and visitors need to continue to be aware of the risk of paralytic shellfish toxin poisoning. “Levels of toxin found in shellfish along parts of the Bay of Plenty coastline remain high. Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or eaten,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. The current health warning has been in place since August 2012. Toi Te Ora has a new Twitter account that people can follow for up-to-date information about the toxic shellfish warning and other health warnings and alerts. The Twitter account to follow is @TTOHealthAlerts. In addition to Twitter up-dates, Toi Te Ora provides information about the toxic shellfish health warning and other warnings and alerts through these channels: Phone: 0800 221 555 Website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings Email alerts for subscribers: www.ttophs.govt.nz/alert Signage at locations (e.g. shellfish health warning signs at affected beaches) The Medical Officer of Health strongly advises against the collection of shellfish from Tairua on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, south to Waihi Beach and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The warning includes Tairua Harbour as well as Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s eyes, snails and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish containing toxic levels of paralytic shellfish poison don't look or taste any different from shellfish that are safe to eat. Cooking or freezing the shellfish does not remove the toxin. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before consuming. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face, hands and feet; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms can start as soon as 1-2 hours after eating toxic shellfish and usually within 12 hours. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek urgent medical attention. Wed, 27 March 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/627 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/626 Whooping cough in the Bay of Plenty and across the country has prompted a push to vaccinate more babies on time. “The epidemic of whooping cough is showing little sign of going away which makes our smallest and most vulnerable residents a priority,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller. In 2012, Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service was notified of 189 Bay of Plenty cases of whooping cough, with 11 aged under one year. Babies under one year are vulnerable and need to start immunisation at six weeks. Babies who get whooping cough are most at risk of serious complications and more likely to need hospitalisation. Even the healthiest babies can catch serious diseases if they are not immunised. “The community has really got behind the immunisation programme recently with almost 90% coverage at two years, but not all babies are being protected early enough,” says Dr Miller. At six months old around 35% of babies are still not up-to-date with their immunisations. “Getting started on time at six weeks is a good way to make sure that babies get the best protection,” says Dr Miller. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service is posting out immunisation information to parents across the Bay of Plenty, backed by a specific website page, radio and Facebook messages. Parents can contact their local medical centre for an appointment for their baby or to discuss immunisation. Childhood immunisations are free. For more information call 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) or visit www.ttophs.govt.nz Tue, 26 March 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/626 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/616 A health warning has been issued for Lake Okaro near Rotorua as there are currently high levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae in the lake. These algae are capable of producing harmful toxins at any time. Exposure to the toxins through skin contact or swallowing the affected water can result in significant symptoms including an acute asthma attack, skin rashes, vomiting and diarrhoea, tingling and numbness, or difficulty with breathing. “People are advised to avoid recreational activities involving contact with the lake water,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. Lake Okaro, near Rainbow Mountain, twenty-five kilometres to the south of Rotorua, has a significant recent history of algal blooms reflecting the high level of nutrients contained in the lake sediment. For up to date information on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes visit www.ttophs.govt.nz and click on health warnings or call 0800 221 555 and select option 7 to speak to the on call health protection officer. Fri, 1 March 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/616 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/612 The health warning in place since July last year for Lake Okaro, south of Rotorua, has been lifted. Medical Officer of Health, Dr Phil Shoemack says “results of regular water testing performed by Bay of Plenty Regional Council confirm that the algal bloom has subsided.” Despite the lifting of the warning Dr Shoemack advises that the public should always be alert for signs of algal blooms in any of the lakes around Rotorua. “If the lake is discoloured, smelly, or has green or brown particles suspended in it then stay out of the water. Cyanobacteria, otherwise known as blue-green algae, can multiply rapidly at any time and they always have the potential for toxin production with these toxins being potentially harmful for people as well as animals.” Bay of Plenty Regional Council will continue to monitor the lakes on a weekly basis through the summer months and health warnings will be issued if algal blooms are detected. For updates on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes regions, visit our website - www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings Fri, 1 February 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/612 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/605 A free whooping cough vaccine is now available to all pregnant women to help protect their newborn babies from this serious disease. The ongoing whooping cough outbreak has resulted in Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service being notified of 283 people with whooping cough in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts during 2012, with 16 people requiring hospitalisation. Of these 283 people, 25 were babies aged one year and under and 34 were young children aged from one to four years old. So far this year another 21 cases of whooping cough have been notified to Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service. Babies under one year old who get whooping cough are most at risk of serious complications and more likely to need hospitalisation. “Whooping cough can be a very serious disease for young babies,” says Dr Neil de Wet. “During this ongoing outbreak of whooping cough, I strongly recommend that pregnant women get immunised to help protect their newborn baby from whooping cough.” “Having a whooping cough booster during pregnancy reduces the risk of mums developing whooping cough and passing the infection on. In addition, mothers will pass on some immunity to their baby,” says Dr de Wet. “When pregnant women get vaccinated, not only are they helping to protect their own health, they’re helping to protect their baby too,” says Dr de Wet. Immunisations given on time, every time is the best way to provide ongoing protection for babies through childhood. Whooping cough immunisations should be given when a baby is 6 weeks, 3 months and 5 months old and boosters are given to children at 4 years and 11 years of age. From 1 January 2013 and until the outbreak finishes, all pregnant women can get a free whooping cough vaccine between 28 and 38 weeks of pregnancy from their GP. Other adults caring for infants should consider having a whooping cough booster too. Contact your GP to discuss further. For more information visit www.ttophs.govt.nz/whooping_cough Thu, 24 January 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/605 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/602 Bay of Plenty residents and visitors remain at risk of paralytic shellfish toxin poisoning. “Levels of toxin found in shellfish are still high and there have been two further cases of illness reported over the Christmas and New Year holiday,” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health for Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service. This brings to 29 the total number of people who have been poisoned by eating toxic shellfish collected from the Bay of Plenty coastline since mid-December. “Paralytic shellfish poisoning can be a very serious illness, it can even be fatal. People have been really sick after eating shellfish from the Bay of Plenty, with some requiring treatment in the intensive care unit. Please look out for the signs and don’t collect or eat shellfish from the affected areas,” says Dr Miller. The Medical Officer of Health strongly advises against the collection of shellfish from Tairua on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, south to Waihi Beach and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The warning includes Tairua Harbour as well as Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s eyes, snails and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or eaten. Shellfish containing toxic levels of paralytic shellfish poison don't look or taste any different from shellfish that are safe to eat. Cooking or freezing the shellfish does not remove the toxin. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before consuming. “If you do want shellfish this summer, visit your supermarket or seafood retailer as commercially supplied shellfish are safe to eat,” says Dr Miller. The toxin that causes the illness comes from algae in the ocean. Shellfish feed on the algae and concentrate the toxin in their flesh. Algae levels are extremely high in the Bay at present so shellfish toxin is also at elevated levels. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face, hands and feet; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms can start as soon as 1-2 hours after eating toxic shellfish and usually within 12 hours. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek urgent medical attention. Shellfish and seawater samples around New Zealand are tested regularly by the Ministry for Primary Industries to ensure they are not contaminated. Public health warnings are issued when shellfish are not safe to eat. For more information about marine biotoxin alerts visit www.foodsmart.govt.nz. For up to date information on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty please visit www.ttophs.govt.nz and click on health warnings or call 0800 221 555 and select option 7 to speak to the on call health protection officer. Thu, 17 January 2013 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/602 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/582 The number of people affected by paralytic shellfish poisoning toxin has increased by seven since Tuesday. In total, 27 people have been poisoned by eating shellfish collected from the Bay of Plenty coastline. Thirteen people have been admitted to hospital after suffering symptoms ranging from tingling around the mouth to difficulty walking. Three people remain in hospital. The toxin that causes the illness comes from algae in the ocean. Shellfish feed on the algae and concentrate the toxin in their flesh. Algae levels are extremely high in the Bay at present so shellfish toxin is expected to rise. This underlines the seriousness of the current Medical Officer of Health warning. “Paralytic shellfish poisoning can be a very serious illness, which can even be fatal. People have been really sick after eating shellfish from the Bay of Plenty. Please don’t collect or eat shellfish from the affected areas these summer holidays,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Neil de Wet. As a reminder the Medical Officer of Health strongly advises against the collection of shellfish from Tairua on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, south to Waihi Beach and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The warning includes Tairua Harbour as well as Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s eyes, snails and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or eaten. Shellfish containing toxic levels of paralytic shellfish poison don't look or taste any different from shellfish that are safe to eat. Cooking or freezing the shellfish does not remove the toxin. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before consuming. “Commercially supplied shellfish are safe to eat, so if you want shellfish on the menu over the holidays visit your supermarket or seafood retailer,” says Dr de Wet. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face, hands and feet; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms can start as soon as 1-2 hours after eating toxic shellfish and usually within 12 hours. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek urgent medical attention. Shellfish and seawater samples around New Zealand are tested regularly by the Ministry for Primary Industries to ensure they are not contaminated. Public health warnings are issued when shellfish are not safe to eat. For more information about marine biotoxin alerts visit www.foodsmart.govt.nz. For up to date information on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty please visit www.ttophs.govt.nz and click on health warnings or call 0800 221 555 and select option 7 to speak to the on call health protection officer. Thu, 20 December 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/582 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/581 The outbreak of paralytic shellfish poisoning is the worst that has been seen in the Bay of Plenty. Since 12 December 2012, twenty people have been poisoned by eating shellfish collected from the Bay of Plenty shoreline. Ten have had to be admitted for hospital care after suffering symptoms ranging from tingling around the mouth to difficulty walking. Four people remain in hospital. The levels of toxins being reported from routine shellfish sampling, and the number and severity of cases underline that collecting shellfish from the affected area is a significant health risk. The health warning that was issued in August remains in place. Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health, stresses the importance of heeding the health warning and making sure that friends and visitors to our area are made aware of the risk. “Tell your family, whanau, friends and tourists that collecting shellfish is not safe at present. If you see someone collecting shellfish remind them – we don’t want anyone else in hospital this holiday”. As a reminder the Medical Officer of Health strongly advises against the collection of shellfish from Tairua on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, south to Waihi Beach and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The warning includes Tairua Harbour as well as Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s eyes and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek urgent medical attention. For up to date information on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty please visit www.ttophs.govt.nz and click on health warnings or call 0800 221 555 and select option 7 to speak to the on call health protection officer. ________________________________________ ENDS For further information or comment, contact: Bay of Plenty District Health Board Communications Diana Marriot or Frances Rameka Ph: 021 227 0452 Tue, 18 December 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/581 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/580 In the past 24 hours five people have presented to Rotorua Hospital with symptoms of toxic shellfish poisoning with a further two unrelated cases seen at Tauranga Hospital. Each person affected had eaten shellfish collected from the coastline between Mount Maunganui and Papamoa. Their symptoms ranged from tingling round the mouth and face, tingling of the skin on their arms and hands, mild weakness when walking, and diarrhoea and vomiting. As the summer holiday season approaches, Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health, would like to remind the public that the health warning due to shellfish toxins along parts of the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty coastline is still in place. “We have had reports that people have been continuing to eat shellfish and have felt unwell after doing so. The toxins can make people very ill and we strongly advise not consuming shellfish from any part of the affected area,” says Dr Shoemack. He adds “the cases seen at local hospitals in the past day is a stark reminder of the risk of ignoring the warning. Since August 2012 high levels of paralytic shellfish poison have been found in shellfish along a significant stretch of coastline. A health warning is already in place advising against the collection of shellfish from Tairua on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, south to Waihi Beach and along the Bay of Plenty coast to Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The warning includes Tairua Harbour as well as Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as cat’s-eyes and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. For up to date information on health warnings in Bay of Plenty go to www.ttophs.govt.nz and click on health warnings. Or call 0800 221 555 and select option 6 to speak to the on call Health Protection Officer. Sat, 15 December 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/580 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/578 Arataki Primary School has become the first school in the Western Bay of Plenty to gain Bronze Accreditation as part of the Health Promoting Schools programme. Health Promoting Schools is a programme run by Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service to improve the health and wellbeing of participating school communities in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts. A Health Promoting School focuses on how the social, physical, cultural and spiritual environment of a school can impact on student health, wellbeing and ability to learn effectively. It does this by using a Whole School Approach to identify the health and wellbeing issues that may create barriers to learning and achievement, and develops strategies and actions that address these. The Bronze Standard Accreditation was presented to the school at assembly on Wednesday 12th December in recognition of their commitment to the health and wellbeing of the Arataki community. As a Health Promoting School, Arataki Primary School’s actions in areas such as improving mental wellbeing, creating and sustaining a SunSmart environment, improving student nutrition and being more environmentally responsible all contributed towards the achievement of Bronze Accreditation. “The whole school including staff, parents and children has embraced the concept of being a Health Promoting School and this has further increased our togetherness as a caring Arataki Family,” says Mr Dene Langley, Principal of Arataki Primary School. A small group of dedicated students, staff and whānau known as ‘The HPS team’ have undertaken much of the work towards accreditation. They were supported throughout their journey by Health Promoting Schools Lead Teacher, Kylie Heath and Health Improvement Advisor, Tiana Hackett from Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service. “I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the commitment of our Arataki students and the support from staff and parents throughout the journey we have been on,” says Mrs Kylie Heath, Teacher and Health Promoting Schools Leader of Arataki Primary School. “Schools are an important part of our communities. Involving the whole school community, with particular emphasis on ensuring the voices of our most vulnerable (children) are heard, is key to improving the health and wellbeing of our whānau and future generations. Arataki Primary School has provided an excellent example of what can be achieved by working in partnership with one and other and listening to what the children and whānau have to say. I hope that other schools will follow their lead,” says Tiana Hackett, Health Improvement Advisor. Thu, 13 December 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/578 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/573 Parents in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts are urged to ensure their babies receive their first immunisations on time at six weeks to protect them from whooping cough (pertussis). An outbreak of whooping cough started in the South Island last year and has spread across New Zealand during 2012. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been notified of 243 people with whooping cough in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts since the start of this year, with 14 people requiring hospitalisation. Whooping cough is highly infectious and is caused by bacteria that are spread through the community by coughing and sneezing in the same way as colds and influenza. Symptoms start with a runny nose, and dry cough. Coughing gets worse over the next few weeks developing into attacks of coughing which sometimes end in vomiting or with breathlessness. The ‘whoop’ sound sometimes occurs especially as a baby draws a breath after a long coughing attack. Babies under one year are most at risk of serious complications from the illness. “Whooping cough is a preventable disease. Immunisation for whooping cough is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme and we strongly recommend parents get their babies immunised on time,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. Whooping cough immunisations are given when a baby is 6 weeks, 3 months and 5 months old and boosters are given to children at 4 years and 11 years of age. “On-time immunisation gives babies the best protection. For parents of older children it’s a good reminder to check their children are up to date with immunisations. It’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr Shoemack. Adults who have a cough and work with young children should be especially vigilant in case they have whooping cough. "If you’re concerned about a cough stay away from babies and young children and talk to your doctor about whether it could be whooping cough," says Dr Shoemack. Whooping cough immunisation is free for your child. Contact your family doctor or practice nurse for more information or to make an appointment for immunisation. For more information call 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) or visit our website www.ttophs.govt.nz/whooping_cough Tue, 4 December 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/573 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/566 Water sampling conducted by Bay of Plenty Regional Council has confirmed that the bloom of blue green algae in Lake Okaro, near Rotorua has worsened. A health warning advising against recreational use of the lake has been in place since July. Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health, says testing done last week shows that the bloom has increased in intensity. “Now warmer weather has arrived it is possible the algal bloom could continue for some time and people should be very cautious before using Lake Okaro for any form of recreation,” says Dr Shoemack. Blue green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins which are particularly harmful to both people and animals, especially dogs. The toxins can aggravate asthma or eczema, result in stomach upset, and cause skin rashes, numbness and tingling. Lake Okaro, near Rainbow Mountain, approximately twenty kilometres to the south of Rotorua, has a significant recent history of algal blooms reflecting the high level of nutrients contained in the lake sediment. Regular testing of the lake will continue over the summer months. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Further information is available at www.ttophs.govt.nz Mon, 12 November 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/566 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/554 Following ongoing shellfish toxin monitoring the Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin warning has been extended eastwards to include Whakatane Heads. The affected area now includes the entire coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour), east along the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, to Whakatane Heads. Also included in the warning are Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. “Ongoing monitoring has shown high levels of paralytic shellfish poison present in shellfish along this coastline. People should take note of the areas that still contain high levels of paralytic shellfish poison and avoid collecting shellfish in these areas,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Further information is available at www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings Fri, 5 October 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/554 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/544 Women in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts are urged to use September – Cervical Screening Awareness Month – as a reminder to have a cervical smear test, every three years. Bay of Plenty and Lakes Regional Co-ordinator Anneliese Luthard says investing a small amount of time in having regular cervical smears can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by an amazing 90 per cent. “The cell changes to the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection is very common. Changes in the cervix as a result of HPV occur very slowly and may clear spontaneously. However, sometimes these changes may progress to cancer. So, having regular smears, every three years, means it is very likely abnormal cells will be found and treated long before they ever become cancer,” says Mrs Luthard. Some women may now be offered an HPV test when they have their cervical smear. The test helps identify women who may need further follow up with a specialist. A negative test result indicates you are extremely unlikely to be at risk of developing cervical cancer in the next three to five years. This can reduce the need for repeat smears for women whose smears have shown mild changes or who have previously had treatment. A positive test result means a high-risk type of HPV has been found. In this case, your smear taker will discuss follow up with you, so any cell changes can be treated early. The HPV test is usually taken at the same time as the cervical smear test, using the same sample of cells, so there is no need to have a second test. It’s important for women who have had the HPV vaccine to remember to have regular cervical smears. The HPV vaccine does not protect against all the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer, so women who have been immunised must still have smears every three years. Women who are not sure when their smear is due, or who want to become part of the National Cervical Screening Programme can ring the freephone number 0800 729 729 or visit www.cervicalscreening.govt.nz. Regular cervical smear tests are recommended from the age of 20 to 70 for women who have ever been sexually active. “I hope all our local women book in for a smear if it’s due or overdue, and join the National Cervical Screening Programme if they haven’t already,” said Mrs Luthard. Regional cervical screening statistics by DHB: Bay of Plenty In the Bay of Plenty DHB region, more than 77 percent of all women aged 25 to 69 had a cervical smear in the last three years. This includes 59 percent of Māori women, 71 percent of Pacific women, 79 percent of Asian women and 83 percent of European/other women. The National Cervical Screening Programme is working towards a national target by 2014 of 80 percent of women having had a smear test in the past three years. Lakes In the Lakes DHB region, more than 77 percent of all women aged 25 to 69 had a cervical smear in the last three years. This includes 65 percent of Māori women, 52 percent of Pacific women, 66 percent of Asian women and 85 percent of European/other women. The National Cervical Screening Programme is working towards a national target by 2014 of 80 percent of women having had a smear test in the past three years. Tue, 11 September 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/544 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/518 Following ongoing shellfish toxin monitoring the Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin warning has been extended eastwards along the Bay of Plenty coastline. The affected area now includes the entire coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour) on the Coromandel Peninsula, east along the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, to Rogers Road at Pukehina. Also included in the warning are Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. “Ongoing monitoring has shown high levels of paralytic shellfish poison present in shellfish along this coastline. People should take note of the areas that still contain high levels of paralytic shellfish poison and avoid collecting shellfish in these areas,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Phil Shoemack. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Further information is available at www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings (To check if this shellfish warning is still in place, visit Health Warnings) Fri, 17 August 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/518 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/516 As a result of testing, people are advised to avoid collecting or eating shellfish from a large area along the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty coastline. The area includes the coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour) to Bowentown heads. “Sampling confirms high levels of paralytic shellfish poison along this stretch of coast. We strongly urge people to avoid all shellfish from this area until further notice. It is unfortunate that this warning has had to be reinstated so soon, however this is a natural occurrence which is difficult to predict,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller. The health warning affects all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops, catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Further information is available at www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings (To check if this shellfish warning is still in place, visit Health Warnings) Fri, 10 August 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/516 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/515 The paralytic shellfish toxin health warning, which has been in place since December last year, has been lifted for the wider Coromandel and Bay of Plenty coastline. The area for which the health warning is lifted includes the entire coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour), east along the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, to Whakatane Heads. Also included are Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. Routine sampling indicates that the levels of shellfish toxin are now within safe limits for the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty coastline. “We know the shellfish warning has been an inconvenience, and we would like to thank the public for their endurance and co-operation,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. Although paralytic shellfish toxin is no longer a concern when shellfish gathering, Dr Shoemack wishes to remind people to exercise caution when deciding where to gather shellfish and when preparing shellfish for consumption. Non-commercial shellfish collected from the sea and harbours are a high risk food because they tend to accumulate and concentrate in their flesh any contaminants found in the water. Bivalve shellfish (those with two shells) filter food particles from the seawater and so, for example, can accumulate viruses and bacteria from sewage overflows and farm run-off, toxins from naturally occurring algae, and chemical contaminants such as heavy metals from urban storm water run-off. When shellfish are eaten raw or lightly cooked, bacteria and viruses won’t be killed. The most effective way to ensure you don’t get sick from eating shellfish is to buy them from the shop or collect them from areas where the seawater is clean and less likely to be contaminated in any way. It is generally not advisable to collect and eat shellfish from beaches and harbours next to built up urban areas. Proper handling, storage and cooking can further lower the risk of illness; visit the Food Safety website for more information - www.foodsafety.govt.nz For advice on health warnings regarding shellfish collecting, contact your local Health Protection Officer on 0800 221 555 then select option 7 or visit our website www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings Thu, 2 August 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/515 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/508 This year’s World Breastfeeding Week will see mothers across New Zealand attempting to break the record set last year of 1564 women breastfeeding simultaneously. Locations are being set up across New Zealand for mothers and babies to come together and celebrate breastfeeding. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been working to support two Big Latch On venues in the Bay of Plenty. Those wanting to join the event in Tauranga, which has been organised by the Breastfeeding Advocacy and Advisory Group for Western Bay of Plenty, can come along to Bayfair Shopping Centre, opposite Farmers at Mount Maungauni at 10am on Friday 3rd August. Whakatane mothers wanting to join the event can come along to Whakatane Library at 9.30am on Friday 3rd August. This Big Latch On has been organised by Ukaipo. The Big Latch On will also be held at other venues across the Bay of Plenty: Katikati – Katikati Midwives Clinic, 14 Jocelyn Street, Katikati Kawerau - Tuwharetoa Health, Ranfurly Building, Kawerau Opotiki - Whakatohea Iwi Social & Health Services, 128 Church St, Opotiki Tauranga – Grindz Café, 50 First Avenue, Tauranga For contact details, visit the Women’s Health Action Trust website – www.womens-health.org.nz This year it is anticipated that even more mothers will participate in the Big Latch On which will again break the record, which has been broken every year since 2005. World Breastfeeding Week takes place annually in the first week of August in over 170 countries. Every year World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) sets a theme for Breastfeeding Week, this year it is “Understanding the Past - Planning the Future, celebrating 10 years of WHO/UNICEF's Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding”. Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months and then continue to breastfeed along with the introduction of solid foods. For more information about World Breastfeeding Week and the Big Latch On event visit www.ttophs.govt.nz/breastfeeding_week or www.womens-health.org.nz Wed, 25 July 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/508 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/504 There is no known connection between cases of listeria reported in Hawke’s Bay and Bay of Plenty. On Monday 16th July the Ministry for Primary Industries issued a food recall notice in conjunction with a Hawkes Bay food company. This recall was a result of investigations carried out by the Hawkes Bay Public Health Unit during their follow-up of four cases of listeria infection which were notified to them during May and June. These investigations were strongly suggestive of a link between some of the Hawkes Bay cases and food prepared by the named company. Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service of the Bay of Plenty District Health Board was notified of two cases of listeria in the Bay of Plenty at the beginning of July. “We are confident both local cases contracted their listeria illness in the community and were then admitted to Tauranga Hospital for treatment of it. Unfortunately one of the local cases died from their listeria illness,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. “We’ve been liaising closely with our colleagues in the Hawkes Bay and extensive investigations show no apparent link between the Bay of Plenty cases and Hawkes Bay cases. The Ministry of Primary Industries has assured us that the company involved with the recall of food in Hawkes Bay does not distribute any products in the Bay of Plenty,” says Dr Phil Shoemack. “In addition, the company which manages the kitchens in Tauranga Hospital have informed us that they have not purchased either directly or indirectly any of the recalled foods,” Dr Shoemack said. 3 August 2012 - Update from Ministry of Primary Industries - Food recall issued after Listeria detected - reminder Fri, 20 July 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/504 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/500 The Medical Officer of Health has issued a health warning for Lake Okaro near Rotorua as there is an ongoing risk of algae blooms in the lake. An algal bloom usually results in a pea-green or brownish appearance of the water often with clumping of algae at the lake edge. Blue green algae are capable of producing harmful toxins at any time. Exposure to the toxins through skin contact or swallowing the affected water, can result in significant symptoms including an acute asthma attack, skin rashes, vomiting and diarrhoea, tingling and numbness, or difficulty with breathing. “People who use the lake should avoid recreational water contact if they see a bloom in the water, if the water is discoloured, or there is a foul smell due to decomposing algae,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. Lake Okaro, near Rainbow Mountain, approximately twenty kilometres to the south of Rotorua, has a significant recent history of algal blooms reflecting the high level of nutrients contained in the lake sediment. Signage will be erected at Lake Okaro advising potential lake users of the algal bloom. Mon, 9 July 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/500 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/486 Immunising at 15 months of age helps to keep your toddler safe from many infectious diseases. “Your toddler is at risk and you can help keep them safe from serious diseases such as measles and mumps by immunising on time at 15 months of age,” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health. The 15 month immunisations help to keep children safe from measles, mumps, rubella, haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and pneumococcal disease. These diseases can make children and adults sick and may lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis and encephalitis (brain inflammation). Immunising your toddler at 15 months is really important as it is the first chance to protect them from measles, mumps and rubella. This vaccine (MMR) is very effective and after this first dose of MMR vaccine, 90-95% of toddlers will be protected from measles, 95-96% protected from mumps, and 90-97% protected from rubella. A second booster dose of MMR is given at 4 years of age. During late 2011, there was a nationwide outbreak of measles which also affected the Bay of Plenty. While the threat of measles is now lower for our community, the recent outbreak shows that infectious diseases such as measles can and do affect people in our area. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service is therefore launching a campaign across the Bay of Plenty this week to remind parents and carers of the importance of immunising toddlers at 15 months. The campaign will run for 12 weeks and includes Facebook and radio adverts, articles in local newspapers and mobiles displayed in general practices and early childhood centres. Information on the 15 month vaccination event is also available on the Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service website at www.ttophs.govt.nz/15_months_immunisation Wed, 6 June 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/486 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/475 The threat of measles to the Bay of Plenty and Lakes communities is now much lower, with the last local case of measles confirmed in December. During the outbreak, parents had the opportunity to protect their babies from measles by providing them with their first dose of MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine from 12 months of age and the second dose 28 days later. "While Auckland continues to report the occasional case, the risk of getting measles locally has reduced significantly. General practices have therefore been advised to go back to offering the MMR vaccine at the usual ages of 15 months and 4 years. It remains important for parents to ensure their children receive both doses of the vaccine for protection from measles," says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever, cough and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. Complications can include diarrhoea, ear infections, pneumonia, and more rarely, brain inflammation,” says Dr Shoemack. If you think your child or someone in your family may have measles, stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice. For more information: Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website Immunisation Advisory Centre website or 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/475 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/443 Parents in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts are urged to ensure their babies receive their first immunisations on time at six weeks to protect them from whooping cough (pertussis). An outbreak of whooping cough started in the West Coast, Nelson and Marlborough last year, and has led to significant increases in the number of cases in Canterbury, Hawkes Bay and Wellington regions in 2012. The number of whooping cough cases in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts has been steadily increasing since the start of this year. “Whooping cough tends to occur in outbreaks every three to four years and our rise in cases could be the beginning of a local outbreak,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. Whooping cough is highly infectious and is caused by bacteria that are spread through the community by coughing and sneezing in the same way as colds and influenza. Symptoms start with a runny nose, fever and dry cough. Coughing gets worse over the next few weeks developing into attacks of coughing and sometimes causes vomiting. The ‘whoop’ sound occurs as a baby or adult draws a breath after a long coughing attack. Babies under one year are most at risk of serious complications from the illness. “Whooping cough is a preventable disease. Immunisation for whooping cough is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme and we strongly recommend parents get their babies immunised on time,” says Dr de Wet. Whooping cough immunisations are given at 6 weeks, 3 months and 5 months with boosters at 4 years and 11 years of age. “On-time immunisation gives babies the best protection. For parents of older children it’s a good reminder to check they’re up to date with immunisations. It’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr de Wet. People who work with young children should be especially vigilant in case they develop whooping cough. "If you’re concerned about a cough stay away from babies and young children and talk to your doctor about whether it could be whooping cough," says Dr de Wet. Whooping cough immunisation is free for your child. Contact your family doctor or practice nurse for more information or to make an appointment for immunisation. For more information call 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) or visit our website www.ttophs.govt.nz/whooping_cough Thu, 22 March 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/443 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/424 Following ongoing shellfish toxin monitoring the Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin warning has been extended eastwards to include Whakatane Heads. The affected area now includes the entire coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour), east along the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, to Whakatane Heads. Also included in the warning are Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. (To check if this shellfish warning is still in place, visit Health Warnings) Fri, 13 January 2012 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/424 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/415 As the summer holiday season approaches, the Medical Officer of Health would like to remind the public that the health warning due to shellfish toxins along parts of the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty coastline is still in place. “Ongoing weekly monitoring has shown continuing high levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxin present in shellfish along this coastline” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health. The affected area includes the entire coastline from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour), east along the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, to Rogers Road at Pukehina. Also included in the warning are Matakana and Motiti islands, and all other inshore islands along this coastline. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking. Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention. Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555 or visit our website – www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings (To check if this shellfish warning is still in place, visit Health Warnings) Fri, 23 December 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/415 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/414 Over the past month nearly 50 childcare centres and businesses from Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga and Whakatane have achieved Breastfeeding Friendly accreditation from Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service. These are supportive environments where mothers can feel comfortable breastfeeding their babies. Places include cafes, restaurants, early childhood centres, retailers and libraries. “We are really impressed with the amount of support and enthusiasm from businesses and their staff across the region,” says Health Improvement Advisor, Ronda Cleland Weiss. A list of Breastfeeding Friendly Cafes and Restaurants can be viewed at www.ttophs.govt.nz/breastfeeding_friendly_cafes, a list of Breastfeeding Friendly Early Childcare Centres can be viewed at www.ttophs.govt.nz/breastfeeding_friendly_eces and a list of Breastfeeding Friendly Businesses and Retailers can be viewed at www.ttophs.govt.nz/breastfeeding_friendly_businesses. The Breastfeeding Friendly initiative is run across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes regions. A Health Improvement Advisor assists business owners and managers in becoming Breastfeeding Friendly. People can identify a Breastfeeding Friendly environment by signs on the premises. Robert Harris Coffee Roasters in Tauranga is one of the cafes that recently received Breastfeeding Friendly accreditation. “It’s important to provide somewhere for mothers so they have a comfortable space to breastfeed,” says owner, Susanne Irwin. One of the initiatives Robert Harris Coffee Roasters undertook towards achieving accreditation was to train staff to support breastfeeding customers. This is as simple as offering a glass of water to breastfeeding mums or assisting them with food trays. The café also provides baby changing facilities. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until babies are around six months old, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods until they are one year of age or beyond. It’s important that breastfeeding mothers have support from their partners, family/whānau, health practitioners, and once breastfeeding has been established, their employers and the community. To become Breastfeeding Friendly, its free, simple and easy; call Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service on 0800 221 555. For more information on the Breastfeeding Friendly project, visit www.ttophs.govt.nz/breastfeeding_friendly Wed, 21 December 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/414 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/400 Update on the safety of shellfish collection - Bay of Plenty coastline and parts of Coromandel The health warning advising against the collection and consumption of shellfish, kina, crabs and seaweed due to the oil spill from the MV Rena is no longer necessary and has been lifted by the Medical Officer of Health. However, recreational and traditional taking of shellfish in some parts of the coastline remains risky but now for a different reason. Routine sampling has now shown high levels of naturally occurring Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins from Tairua (including Tairua Harbour) in the Coromandel to Rogers Road at Pukehina. Therefore, a new health warning is being issued advising against the collection or consumption of shellfish in these areas. Oil related contamination A shellfish monitoring programme, coordinated by Bay of Plenty Regional Council, has shown that although some samples of shellfish from the most affected shoreline showed traces of hydrocarbon from the oil spill, this has been well below acceptable food safety levels. The amount detected has also fallen during the period since the last significant oiling events. Therefore there is now no appreciable food safety risk from the MV Rena oil spill. Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin People are advised not to collect or eat shellfish from anywhere along the coastline from Tairua in the Coromandel to Rogers Road at Pukehina until further notice. “This health warning has been issued due to results that showed high levels of PSP toxins detected from shellfish samples taken in this area,” says Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller. PSP toxin is caused naturally by biotoxins that are generated by phytoplankton. People cannot tell if shellfish are risky by looking at them. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops, as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but the gut should be removed before cooking. Symptoms of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning include numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention immediately. “It is disappointing to have to give such mixed news on the safety of shellfish. Just as we are able to reassure people about the impact of the oil spill, nature has presented another hazard,” says Dr Jim Miller. In summary, the oil is no longer of concern in relation to food safety along the Bay of Plenty coastline, however due to high levels of PSP toxins the public are advised against collecting or eating shellfish from Tairua in the Coromandel to Rogers Road at Pukehina. For further information: www.ttophs.govt.nz/shellfish www.foodsmart.govt.nz/elibrary/food_safety_seafood.pdf Map of affected coastline: www.foodsmart.govt.nz/food-safety/hunting-collecting-fishing/seafood-gatherers/marine-biotoxin-alerts.htm For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Thu, 1 December 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/400 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/397 Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service can now confirm that there have been 10 cases of measles across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes areas since early October. The majority of the cases have been in Tauranga and Rotorua, and measles is likely to spread within the region. There have been over 400 confirmed cases of measles to date in New Zealand this year and at least 70 of these have required hospital treatment. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service is following up a number of people who have been in close contact with recent measles cases. People identified as ‘contacts’ who are not immunised are required to stay away from work or school for 14 days to ensure that they don’t inadvertently spread measles should they become ill. To help prevent measles from spreading further within our communities, the Medical Officer of Health is urging people to ensure they and their families are protected from measles. “Measles immunisation provides effective protection and the vaccine is free for children and adults,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. Because of the current outbreak of measles, babies from 12 months of age can go to their family doctor or practice nurse for their first dose of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine. “Once a baby has the vaccine at 12 months of age, the second dose of MMR vaccine can be given 28 days later,” says Dr de Wet. “This also applies to older children, teenagers and adults – if you have missed your scheduled immunisation or you’re not immunised, contact your family doctor or practice nurse,” says Dr de Wet. People born before 1 January 1969 are likely to be immune because measles used to be quite common. “For everyone born after 1 January 1969 it is important to ensure that you have received the two doses of MMR vaccine. It’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr de Wet. “MMR immunisation uptake has increased in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes region over the last couple of weeks and we would like to thank and acknowledge the people who have had immunisations recently to protect themselves, their family and their community from measles,” says Dr de Wet. Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever, cough and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. Complications include diarrhoea, ear infections and pneumonia, and more rarely, brain inflammation,” says Dr de Wet. To help limit the spread of measles to others, if you think your child or someone in your family may have measles, stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice. For more information: Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/measles Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) Immunisation Advisory Centre website: www.immune.org.nz Ministry of Health website: www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation Fri, 11 November 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/397 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/395 Lakes District Health Board has become the first District Health Board (DHB) in New Zealand to be awarded the WorkWell Bronze Standard Accreditation. WorkWell is a workplace wellness management programme delivered by Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes DHB regions. WorkWell Advisors Meghan Ruha and Dave Wood presented the Bronze Standard to Lakes DHB Chief Executive Cathy Cooney during the recent Bipartite meeting. “It’s been a great process for both the Lakes DHB and Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service,” said Dave Wood. “The quality of documentation supplied by Lakes DHB was incredibly high and has provided Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service with some excellent real life examples that can be showcased for other organisations going through the accreditation process.” Lakes DHB Chief Executive Cathy Cooney said she is very proud Lakes is the first DHB to achieve Bronze WorkWell Accreditation, adding this is one of the ways in which Lakes DHB can demonstrate to its staff, patients and the wider community its commitment to the health and wellbeing of its staff. “Our vision at Lakes DHB is Healthy Communities- Mauriora! so improved health and wellbeing for our staff was the key driver to adopting the WorkWell wellness management programme. An important concept for WorkWell is to engage staff members in the process of identifying issues in the workplace and designing solutions so it was very pleasing that many staff members participated in the WorkWell survey in February 2011 and very satisfying to note that most staff members surveyed are happy in their workplace.” Dave Wood acknowledged the effort of Linda Johnston, the Lakes DHB WorkWell Leader and all the other staff that played a key role in reaching this milestone. “Lakes DHB has taken a lead role in workplace wellness by making the commitment to ensure that they’re providing a working environment that supports making the healthy choice the easy choice,” said Dave Wood. “The DHB has actively encouraged their local health providers to participate in WorkWell, helping to ensure they’re also walking the talk in terms of health and wellbeing.” 55 businesses are currently registered with WorkWell and are working towards identifying ways in which they can improve, promote and protect the health of their staff and ultimately their business or organisation. Lakes DHB, with over 1,350 employees, is the largest employer to achieve the WorkWell Bronze Standard Accreditation since the programme’s implementation in 2010. “Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service looks forward to continuing this partnership with Lakes DHB and seeing the DHB reach Silver and Gold Standard accreditation,” said Dave Wood. For more information about WorkWell visit the website - www.workwell.health.nz Thu, 3 November 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/395 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/394 Off the Bay of Plenty coastline, the ship 'Rena' has grounded on Astrolabe reef and oil from the ship has leaked into the water and has come onto the shore at various locations along the Bay of Plenty coastline. The following provides further clarification of public health advice already given. Shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina and seaweed Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has advised against the collection of shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina and seaweed in all affected areas. Toi Te Ora has classified the Bay of Plenty coastline into three ‘shellfish zones’ to help identify the areas at risk. The red zone includes Waihi Beach in the west to the entrance to Ohiwa Harbour in the east. Specifically, it also includes Matakana island, Motiti island, Whale island and all inshore islands, rocky outcrops and estuaries in these areas. Within the red zone people are advised to not gather or eat shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina or seaweed in these areas until further notice. The Eastern Bay of Plenty coastline from the Ohiwa Harbour entrance to Cape Runaway, including all inshore islands, rocky outcrops and estuaries in these areas are in the amber shellfish zone. The amber zone includes areas where there are not yet confirmed reports of oil but there is a high risk of oil contamination being found. In some of these areas oil contaminated debris from the Rena has been found. The public are advised that shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina and seaweed in these areas are at significant risk of oil contamination and should not be collected or eaten. Any seafood that has a petrol-like or fuel-like smell should definitely not be eaten. The green zone includes the east coast of the Coromandel peninsula north from Waihi Beach. Shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina or seaweed may be taken from these areas but please be cautious. To date, neither oil nor debris from the Rena has been identified on this coast but that could change at any time. If there are any signs of oil contamination on the beach or on rocks, or a petrol-like or fuel-like smell is present, shellfish, crayfish, crabs, kina or seaweed should not be taken or eaten. Fishing People are advised to not go fishing within the current shipping exclusion zone. Outside of this area fish should not be taken from any area that has visible or known oil contamination, or has had recent oil contamination (even if it has been cleaned up), or where there is signage advising against fishing. Swimming and watersports People are advised to not swim at any beach that has been closed to recreational activity. In other areas, people should be cautious when swimming and avoid any unnecessary exposure. If you do smell or see oil in the water we suggest you leave the area. Children, especially, should be closely supervised. With changing wind patterns, currents and ongoing oil spills from the Rena the seabed and shoreline areas affected by oil are likely to change on a daily basis. Please report immediately any observed oil contamination in these areas to 0800 OIL SPILL. To see a map and more information about the shellfish zones and for the latest public health information for this situation, people are encourage to check the Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service regularly – www.ttophs.govt.nz/rena_oil_spill Fri, 28 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/394 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/393 With the recent confirmation of people becoming infected with the measles in the Bay of Plenty, early protection is being encouraged by the Medical Officer of Health. Babies from 12 months of age can go to their family doctor or practice nurse for their first dose of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine. “The first dose is usually given at 15 months of age, however, we are very concerned about the impact measles is already having on some people in our community and wish to protect as many as we can from this serious, infectious disease,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. “Measles immunisation provides effective protection and the vaccine is completely free for children and adults,” says Dr Phil Shoemack. “Once a baby has the vaccine at 12 months of age, the second dose of MMR vaccine can be given 28 days later,” says Dr Shoemack. “This also applies to older children, teenagers and adults – if you have missed your scheduled immunisation or you’re not immunised, contact your family doctor or practice nurse. It’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr Shoemack. People born before 1969 are likely to be immune because measles used to be quite common but those born from 1969 onwards who are unsure of their immunity should check with their doctor. Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. These include diarrhoea, ear infections and, more seriously, pneumonia and brain inflammation. Around one in ten people need to be hospitalised,” says Dr Shoemack. Knowing what to do if you suspect you or someone in the family has measles can help limit spread to others. If you think your child or someone in your family may have measles; stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice. For more information: Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/measles Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) Immunisation Advisory Centre website: www.immune.org.nz Ministry of Health website: www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation Fri, 21 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/393 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/392 The WorkWell team from Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service proudly took first place at the Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) 2011 Innovation Awards. The Innovation Awards, open to BOPDHB employees and health service contractors, recognise innovative initiatives that show a beneficial outcome. The WorkWell team were awarded for their outstanding contribution to improving the health status of the people of the Bay of Plenty. “There were some excellent initiatives presented,” says WorkWell Advisor, Meghan Ruha. “Of course, we would not have been able to present such great outcomes without the enthusiasm and drive of the businesses we work with and the support we have received from providers and other organisations.” “With more than 50 businesses now registered, WorkWell has come a long way since being launched in March 2010,” says Meghan. Free to businesses in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes regions, WorkWell provides a range of resources and support tools to help businesses ensure their staff are able to make good health choices while in the workplace. Evidence shows that effective workplace wellness strategies can lead to increased productivity, reduced illness and staff turnover, reduced workplace accidents, and happier and more loyal staff. Interested businesses should log onto the WorkWell website www.workwell.health.nz for more information. Mon, 17 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/392 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/391 The first two locally acquired cases of measles can be confirmed this week in the Bay of Plenty area. Contacts have been identified and advised as appropriate by public health. “This confirms that the measles virus is in our community, and I would like to remind people that the best way for us to avoid further cases of this potentially serious infection is for everyone to ask themselves – is my family protected?” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health. “School holidays can be a convenient time for many families to catch up with their immunisations. Measles immunisation provides effective protection and the vaccine is completely free for children and adults. MMR is given in two doses, normally at 15 months and 4 years of age,” says Dr Jim Miller. People born before 1969 are likely to be immune because measles used to be quite common but those born from 1969 onwards who are unsure of their immunity should check with their doctor. “Contact your family doctor or practice nurse if you or your child need to be immunised – it’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr Miller. Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. These include diarrhoea, ear infections and, more seriously, pneumonia and brain inflammation,” says Dr Miller. Knowing what to do if you suspect you or someone in the family has measles can help limit spread to others. If you think your child or someone in your family may have measles; stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice. For more information: Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/measles Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) Immunisation Advisory Centre website: www.immune.org.nz Ministry of Health website: www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation Wed, 12 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/391 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/390 The Medical Officer of Health, Dr Jim Miller is advising people in the Bay of Plenty not to collect and consume seafood (including shellfish and fin fish) from waters with visible oil contamination. Any seafood that has off or petrol like odours should be avoided. In particular, as a precaution people should not collect shellfish from Motiti Island. Although there is no evidence of the oil spill reaching the coastline, conditions are continually changing. Collection and testing of shellfish is underway by Maritime New Zealand and further advice will be issued in due course. This health advisory will remain in place until further notice. This advice complements the rahui issued by the Tauranga Moana Iwi Customary Fisheries Trust. Sun, 9 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/390 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/389 Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been on high alert for measles because of the current outbreak in New Zealand, which has been mainly in Auckland, Waikato and Hawkes Bay areas. The first two cases of confirmed measles in our area have been reported this week, although it appears that these cases of measles were likely to have been acquired out of the area. “The best way for us to avoid further cases of this potentially serious infection is for everyone to again ask themselves – is my family protected?” says Dr Jim Miller, Medical Officer of Health. “With the upcoming school holidays and families travelling around New Zealand and overseas, it’s important to ensure that you and your children are up to date with immunisations in general and MMR (measles, mumps and rubella vaccine) in particular. Measles immunisation provides effective protection and the vaccine is completely free for children and adults. MMR is given in two doses, normally at 15 months and 4 years of age,” says Dr Miller. People born before 1969 are likely to be immune because measles used to be quite common but those born from 1969 onwards who are unsure of their immunity should check with their doctor. “Contact your family doctor or practice nurse if you or your child need to be immunised – it’s never too late to catch up,” says Dr Miller. “There has been a good response locally to previous warnings about measles. Suspected cases have been notified promptly and there has been some increase in the number of MMR vaccines given, which has been great,” says Dr Miller. Measles usually begins with a runny nose, fever and sore eyes. This is followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. “Measles is highly infectious and complications are quite common. These include diarrhoea, ear infections and, more seriously, pneumonia and brain inflammation,” says Dr Miller. Knowing what to do if you suspect you or someone in the family has measles can help limit spread to others. If you think your child or someone in your family may have measles; stay at home and phone your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice. For more information: • Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/measles • Immunisation Advisory Centre toll-free phone line 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863) • Immunisation Advisory Centre website: www.immune.org.nz • Ministry of Health website: www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation Thu, 6 October 2011 00:00:00 +1300 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/389 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/388 The health warning that has been in place since 19 May 2011 for parts of Lake Rotorua, Lake Rotoiti and the Kaituna River has now been lifted. The areas that were previously affected by high levels of blue-green algae were the Kaituna River, including the mouth of the river, the eastern side of Lake Rotorua from Holdens Bay to Ohau Channel and the Okere arm portion of Lake Rotoiti. Routine water monitoring results provided by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council have confirmed that the levels of blue-green algae are now within safe limits for these areas. “While there are currently no algal blooms of concern, blooms can occur rapidly and unpredictably, especially as we get into the summer months. So it’s always good to look before you leap - if the water looks discoloured, smells musty, or there’s surface scum, choose somewhere else to swim,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. There will be ongoing water monitoring and health warnings will be issued if algal blooms are detected. For updates on health warnings in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes regions, visit our website - www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings. Mon, 5 September 2011 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/388 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/387 A health warning advising against the collection and consumption of shellfish along the coastline from Mount Maunganui to the Whakatane Heads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty was issued in May 2011. This warning has now been lifted. Shellfish monitoring and sampling indicate that the levels of shellfish toxin are now within safe limits for all of the Bay of Plenty coastline. “We know the shellfish warning has been an inconvenience, and we would like to thank the public for their patience and co-operation over the last few months,” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health. “Although paralytic shellfish toxin is now currently not a concern when shellfish gathering, people still need to be cautious when deciding where to gather shellfish and when preparing shellfish for consumption,” says Dr de Wet. “It is generally not advisable to collect and eat shellfish from beaches and harbours next to built up urban areas or near storm water pipes as these are at more risk of being contaminated by viruses and bacteria”. Proper handling, storage and cooking of shellfish can further lower the risk of illness from viruses and bacteria. Visit the New Zealand Food Safety Authority website for more information. For advice and updates on health warnings regarding shellfish collecting, contact your local Health Protection Officer on 0800 221 555 then select option 7 or visit the Health Warnings section on the Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service website. Tue, 16 August 2011 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/387 http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/386 Grindz Café in Tauranga has become the first Breastfeeding Friendly accredited café in the Bay of Plenty. The Breastfeeding Friendly project is run by Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts. A Health Improvement Advisor works with cafes and restaurants to assist them in becoming accredited as Breastfeeding Friendly for their customers. Customers can identify a Breastfeeding Friendly café or restaurant by signage in the windows. “Grindz Café is a good example of a breastfeeding friendly environment. They provide a welcoming and supportive space for mothers to feel comfortable while breastfeeding their babies,” says Health Improvement Advisor, Louise Harvey. “It’s nice to have a place that is warm and comfortable for mothers to come in and breastfeed. Our staff are really supportive too,” says Lesley Graham, Owner of Grindz Café. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until babies are around six months old, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. It’s important that breastfeeding mothers have support from their partners, family/whānau, health practitioners, and once breastfeeding has been established, their employers and the community. Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service also assists early childhood centres and kōhanga reo to become Breastfeeding Friendly. Assistance to become Breastfeeding Friendly is open to all cafes, restaurants, early childhood centres and kōhanga reo in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes District Health Board regions and is free. Call 0800 221 555 for more information. Tue, 9 August 2011 00:00:00 +1200 GMT http://www.ttophs.govt.nz/latest_news/id/386