Battered Christchurch faces water, health problems

This newspaper article focuses on the health impact for the community following the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake. I was interviewed by Lucy Rickard, reporter from WA Today, a FairFax company. In this interview I discuss the potential differences in injury and illness patterns in comparison to other recent disasters in the region -2011 Queensland floods and 2009 Victorian bushfires. Additionally, I outline the potential mental health issues following disasters, such as post-traumatic growth and post-traumatic stress.

Note: for some reason, this article can not be viewed in IE. However, it works in FireFox.

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2011 Floods: Radio interview on ABC overnights

Following the devastating Queensland and Victorian floods in early 2011, I undertook a radio interview on the ABC overnights program. This interview focused on the preparedness of the community, specifically in relation to health needs. I discussed the need for people to be ‘health prepared’ and to ensure strategies are in place for individuals, families and communities to care for themselves during a disaster or emergency situation. I highlighted the need for people to have a basic understanding of first aid, a stocked first aid kit, and in particular, for individuals to have an accurate list of medications and previous medical history accessible.

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