Sydney health workers sent to flood-affected Northern Rivers for first aid, vaccinations

As the water recedes, the Northern Rivers’ flood crisis is turning into a health crisis. Extra doctors, nurses, paramedics and psychologists are rolling in to lend a hand.

Doctors, nurses and psychologists from across the state are headed to the devastated Northern Rivers after the region’s healthcare workforce was wiped out by the floods while others were suffering from Covid-19.

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce said extended care paramedics and vehicles are on their way to Lismore.

“We have sent a mobile van from Sydney Local Health District to help with tetanus shots, first aid, Covid vaccinations,” she told a budget estimates hearing.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard and Health Secretary Susan Pearce have appeared before a budget estimates hearing, addressing the health response to NSW’s flood crisis. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

“We will be dispatching the big red bus from the Northern Sydney LHD. We will take it to the smaller areas of northern NSW.

“We have canvassed all our local health districts. Mental health practitioners have gone from the mid north coast. Northern NSW will use campervans to set up vaccination clinics.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said health reinforcements could not be sent earlier because of extensive flooding.

The flooding in Lismore now presents a health risk to residents returning to their soiled homes. Picture: Toby Zerna

About 15 to 20 nurses are on their way to the Northern Rivers but the lack of accommodation and transport options could cause delays, health authorities said.

Deputy Chief Health Officer Dr Marianne Gale said there had been a spike in gastroenteritis in the community generally and that trend had continued in the flood-devastated communities.

NSW Health has warned people in the area to boil their water before drinking it.

“Clearly there are a number of health risks associated with floods, (including) gastro and infectious diseases,” she said.