#2328_WSLHD_CPH_YIR 2023_4A_WEB

HEALTH PROTECTION

Effective management of infection outbreaks

In 2023, the team responded to: 222 outbreaks of gastroenteritis (in residential aged care facilities [RACF], childcare centres, hospitals and schools). We worked closely with hospitals, general practices, aged care and childcare staff, the public health network within NSW and other agencies to control and prevent the spread of these diseases. 148 outbreaks of acute Influenza and Respiratory syncytial virus) in RACF. 6 foodborne illness investigations , following up on complaints raised through the OzFoodNet authority. 1 case of measles , a highly infectious disease that respiratory infections (including COVID-19, vulnerable population and people travelling overseas. Controlling the spread of measles relies on rapid diagnosis and notification of cases, strict isolation of those with the disease, the timely identification of contacts, and importantly vaccination and other treatments for those who are at risk or not immune, which occurred via a measles vaccine clinic. is very easily spread particularly for our

Our Public Health Unit identifies, investigates, controls, and prevents communicable diseases in western Sydney communities to limit spread and impact. 2023 saw an increase in the number of highly communicable and vaccine preventable diseases. We responded to 79,439 individual notifications of communicable diseases from laboratories, healthcare workers, and the community about significant risks to public health; quickly and successfully managing these notifications to control and prevent further spread within our community. We also provide information to the public, businesses and health professionals on public health aspects of infectious diseases, guidelines for exclusion from childcare, school or work and medications and treatments that prevent spread of disease.

L-R: Claire Thomas, Stephen Crone, Carly Hanington from the Communicable Diseases team.

“Every day is different for us. While there are some challenging aspects such as trying to source information from patients and contacts and keeping up with the many changes in the field, there are also positive aspects such as learning more about people in our community, being able to apply our knowledge to new research, and importantly – the best ways to avoid communicable diseases!” – Communicable Diseases team

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WSLHD Centre for Population Health Year in Review 2023