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The Health Yarn Episode 10: Winter Wellness

News
Indigenous Health
May 10, 2024
On episode 10 of The Health Yarn, NEPHU’s very own Senior Public Health Physician, Dr. Katherine Ong, joins 3KND host Jodii Geddes for an essential discussion on staying well during winter.

As winter months bring a range of health risks, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how to safeguard community health during the colder season. 

Jodii Geddes and Dr. Ong dive into the common illnesses that tend to spread during winter, such as colds, flu, and respiratory infections. They share practical advice on how to prevent these illnesses and minimise their impact. The conversation highlights effective strategies for staying healthy, including tips on boosting your immune system, maintaining good hygiene practices, and managing seasonal health conditions. 

Listen to the full episode below or via the 3knd soundcloud. 

Dr. Ong and Jodii Geddes also address who is at the highest risk of developing severe symptoms during winter. They discuss vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Understanding these risks can help you take proactive steps to protect yourself and others in your community. 

Indigenous communities often face barriers in accessing healthcare services and vaccinations, including systemic inequities and cultural insensitivity, which can impact their ability to manage winter illnesses effectively. Increasing accessibility and culturally appropriate healthcare services is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing the incidence of seasonal diseases in these communities. 

The episode further explores where to seek help if you do fall ill or need medical advice. Dr. Ong provides guidance on accessing healthcare services, including when to see a doctor, how to use local health resources, and the importance of timely medical intervention. 

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Acknowledgement of Country

NEPHU acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, live and play on. We pay our deepest respects to their Elders, past and present.

We recognise and honour the enduring connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to this land, water and Community.​