As temperatures on the Gold Coast soar, locals are being warned to be extra careful with the way they prepare and store food.
In the past week, after-hours doctors have dealt with three food poisoning cases at Carrara, Main Beach and Surfers Paradise.
Patients had symptoms of vomiting and nausea – and doctors have warned there will be more cases is residents are not extra vigilant with food.
Dr Ryan Harvey, of House Call Doctor, said with extreme weather conditions forecast to stay, it was imperative locals were aware of how their food was stored and prepared.
“Food poisoning and illnesses such as salmonella can be incredibly uncomfortable and they can also be dangerous,” he warned.
“Keeping food at regulated temperatures is very important to help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
“Make sure meats aren’t left on the bench to defrost, cold foods (including eggs) are kept in the fridge and meats are cooked through before you eat them.”
Dr Harvey said it was unwise to leave snacks such as cheeses or dips out for too long in the heat.
“Federal Government statistics show the number of salmonella cases in Australia has increased significantly over the past 20 years and Australia has one of the highest rates of foodborne illnesses,” he said.
Symptoms of food poisoning and salmonella were varied.
“Unfortunately, many of us have experienced food poisoning at some time in our lives and know how awful it can be,” he said.
“Common symptoms include whole-body chills, light-headedness, vomiting, headache, fatigue and dehydration.
“Most cases of food poisoning will pass with time but there are risks associated with it, in particular dehydration. Make sure you, or your loved one, is kept hydrated by giving them water and hydrolytes. If symptoms persist, make sure you see a GP or healthcare professional.”
In the past week, House Call Doctor has responded to patients suffering food poisoning in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and Ipswich, as temperatures climbed.
The highest number of cases of 10 were recorded in Brisbane, which occurred in the past few days.
Original Source: Gold Coast Sun | 30 January 2019
