Concern as avian influenza detected at commercial poultry farm While one expert warns the virus could lead to the next major pandemic, another says the risk is only small at this stage. What do we know?
Bird flu threat a ‘test of how our response systems work’ Although the H5N1 virus is not currently in Australia, experts say it is only a matter of time. How can GPs be best prepared?
Could bird flu start a human pandemic? As an outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza continues to spread in the US and worldwide, three virologists answer the most pressing questions.
Backing for mass mask handout in Victoria The RACGP President has lent her support to a Victorian Government initiative to supply millions of masks at key locations around the state.
New research reveals extent of PPE struggles when COVID hit A lack of access and training were cited as major obstacles, with many GPs reportedly feeling as if they had been ‘largely ignored’ by health authorities.
Fit-tested PPE and HEPA filtration ‘best protection’ for health workers, study finds New Australian research adds further evidence that more needs to be done to protect healthcare workers from aerosol spread.
‘Urgently needed’ guidance issued for healthcare COVID exposure sites A new matrix developed by the Department of Health allows clinics to assess their level of risk without having to furlough entire practice teams.
Poll suggests 93% of GPs have not been offered respirator fit-testing GPs in NSW and Victorian hotspots are being giving access to PPE from the National Medical Stockpile. But with few practices offering fit-testing, how protected are GPs?
COVID outbreaks increase urgency of PPE fit-testing for GPs With reports of the Delta variant spreading through the community, GPs say more needs to be done to protect doctors, practice staff and patients.
‘There is airborne transmission’ – but still no sign of PPE upgrades While the latest COVID outbreak in Australia has seen people become infected via only ‘fleeting contact’, consensus guidelines on aerosol protection remain under review.