Maggi Barnard

Did you know that as of January 2019 Pharmacists in NSW can now give a wider range of vaccinations?

This legislation change allows pharmacists who have completed additional professional training to give vaccinations
against measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus (dTpa) as well as the influenza vaccine to those over the age of 16.

This is an exciting change for pharmacists and the community. As pharmacists we are ideally positioned to provide vaccination services. We are easily accessible, cost effective and convenient, no appointment needed! We are dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of service and regular contact with patients allows us to identify at risk groups, provide early intervention and referrals when issues are identified.

Why are vaccinations so important?
Vaccinations protect individuals and the community from the deadly consequences of contracting the above conditions. When you receive a vaccination, you not only protect yourself but also protect those who for medical reasons cannot be vaccinated. This is called herd immunity.

Who benefits from this change?
We have already seen in 2018 that pharmacist immunisations contribute to higher vaccination rates, with significantly fewer deaths and hospitalisations being attributed to this. Everybody has individual circumstances in regards to their vaccination history. For example, many people born between the late 1960s and 1980s actually remain unvaccinated or are only partially immune to measles, mumps and rubella.

Call in to Parkes Pharmacy to discuss how this change can benefit you or to receive that booster shot you just didn’t get!

Dozens of Parkes residents were recently informed the Healthy Lifestyles Program they have come to rely on for their physical and psychological well-being would be discontinued by NSW Health.

They were notified in an unsigned letter that participants would be transferred to community-based exercise and activities, and attached a list of local sports clubs and gyms. “This is an insult to these people who have contributed to society their whole working lives,” said Member for Orange Philip Donato MP last Friday when he met with some of the residents.

“What is overlooked by NSW Health and the Government is the cost savings to the health system through the management and prevention of illness delivered by this program, which keeps people out of hospital beds.

“Given the emphasis upon mental health, especially in rural and regional NSW where isolation from services is prevalent, the mental health benefits from this program are enormous. I support the Parkes community and their call to have this program re-instated.”

Your tongue provides insights into your overall health. It should be pink, moist, smooth and glistening. When it isn’t, see a professional.

White: If your tongue has a white coating it could be a fungal infection. That means something has upset the normal bacteria balance in your mouth. A patchy white covering of your tongue could be leukoplakia, often seen among smokers.
Red: Pink is normal but if your tongue is bright red you may have scarlet fever. A fever and rash may accompany this highly contagious bacterial infection. Seek professional help immediately.
Black: Another sign of unusual bacteria growth is a black or dark brown hairy-looking coating. Reducing sugary foods, better brushing and quitting smoking can often help.
Purple: If your tongue appears a shade of purple or violet, no need to be alarmed. You’ve merely had some grape juice. If you haven’t had any grape juice call us!

For all your dental needs please call us at Riaz Dental on 68621261 or visit www.riazdental.com.au