Category: Waikato DHB News

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Ngā Roto, and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Waikare, Hakanoa, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 7th November 2023 for Lake Ngā Roto has now been lifted after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels are below the warning level. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Waikare, Hakanoa, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Wall, Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Health NZ would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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South Waikato Hauora day sets new benchmark for community wellbeing

Source: Waikato District Health Board

An event taking health and wellbeing in the community to the next level is how a South Waikato Hauora day is being described by Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Waikato.

Chief Medical Officer – Primary Care, Dr Julia Carr said the South Waikato Hauora (wellbeing) Day held at Tokoroa Hospital on 9 March was co-ordinated by the South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services Trust (SWPICS).

“This day provided a unique opportunity for Health NZ staff to combine with trusted, local primary care providers and our secondary colleagues to offer vaccinations, screening and information services to the community, in the setting of the community’s rural hospital.

“The generous and collaborative effort of all involved resulted in a welcoming atmosphere, and the uptake of services was really heartening to see.

“These events usually involve several of our screening and immunisation services teaming up with local providers but Saturday’s real point of difference was some people attending the Hauora day were able to attend outreach specialist clinics and undergo elective surgical procedures on site.”

This had been able to be done by identifying people in the community who were on the surgery waiting list and getting them seen.

The elective procedures conducted in Tokoroa Hospital’s Outpatients Clinic on the day were minor surgical procedures performed by Mr Jasen Ly in a PR Bleeding Clinic set up on behalf of the Braemar Charitable Trust which owns Hamilton’s Braemar Hospital.

Trust manager Paula Baker said the organisation runs and funds a wide range of activities aimed at boosting health outcomes across the Waikato.

“Eight patients who had been on the public waiting list were able to receive treatment from Mr Ly or where needed, be referred for additional specialist care at the Hauora day which is great news,” she said.

Dr Stephen Ng and a team from Waikato Hospital provided vision screening for cataracts & keratoconus and pre-assessments for cataract surgery- a new model of care to improve access for surgery for people from disadvantaged communities in Waikato regions.

In all 82 people were screened by Stephen’s team and 18 people seen by the on-site clinic, 15 of whom were able to be pre-assessed for cataract surgery within the next three months.

SWPICS Chief Executive Akarere Henry said those procedures as well as vaccinations, screening services and general health and wellbeing advice shared with the 500-600 members of the public that visited the Hauora day were all part of a larger plan.

“One of the challenges of rural communities is ‘access.’ This initiative sought to reduce the inequities impacting our communities by deploying outreach health services to reduce barriers to health care for priority populations in the South Waikato.

“As a community provider we’re extremely grateful for the willingness of all partners to work collectively and demonstrate the better utilisation of resources within the one space. SWPICS is deeply honoured to have been able to coordinate this day and bring about its success because it is what the community wants.”

Both Akarere and Julia said it is hoped Saturday’s event will be the first of many such initiatives where the shared outcomes of placing whānau /aiga / kopu tangata (family) at the heart, is tangibly seen and felt.

Services provided by the participating 12 agencies included:

·         Body Mass Indexing

·         Blood Pressure reading

·         Cataract assessment

·         Keratoconus

·         PR Bleeding Clinic

·         Bowel Screening

·         Breast Screening

·         Stop Smoking support

·         Mental Health/ Korero Mai

·         Maternity Services

·         Child Immunisations

·         Cervical Screening

·         AWHI Healthy Homes

·         Drive through vaccines

·         Oral Health

For further information:
Akarere Henry, Chief Executive South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services Trust 0272400043
Email:  ceo@swpics.nz

Paula Baker, Braemar Charitable Trust Manager
Email: PaulaB@braemartrust.co.nz

Caption: SWPICS CEO Akarere Henry left, with Health New Zealand Regional Pacific Lead, Tamati Peni at the Hauora day.

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Transforming the waiting experience at Day of Surgery Admission

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Coming to hospital for surgery can be a daunting experience for any parent and their child. Waikato Hospital’s Day of Surgery Admission (DOSA) team have been working hard to make the experience more pleasant and relaxing for children.

Thanks to the initiatives of Theatre and Perioperative Services Administration Team Leader Katrina Downing and Administrator Sam Mitchell, the team has implemented novel ideas aimed at providing distraction and comfort to children during the waiting period.

Inspired by a vet clinic’s mural, Sam Mitchell collaborated with illustrator Scott Pearson from Visual Evolution to design a large, colourful custom art wall in the DOSA children’s waiting room. Depicting the hospital and landmarks of greater Waikato, the new art wall engages children (and their whānau) with hidden items for them to find.

The team sourced activity bags containing crayons, an activity book, stickers, games, and colouring sheets matching the new artwork, which children are able to take away with them.

The waiting room is also equipped with toddler-friendly ride-on cars, sensory play spaces with squidgy floor tiles, and a fish tank.

Operations Manager Theatre and Anaesthesia, Niki Houghton is thrilled to see the positive changes made by the DOSA team.

“The cars and the wall art are a huge hit with waiting toddlers and their parents.

“We can have up to five children and their parents in the waiting room at a time. These interactive distractions make a big difference,” says Niki.

Looking ahead, the DOSA team is focusing on the creation of a sensory room for special needs patients. With features like a sparkle cloud, bubble tube, and a projector with visual effects, the room aims to provide a calm and safe space. These additions are expected within the next two months.

Photo – Transformation team: (left-right) Sam Mitchell, Charge Nurse Manager DOSA Raewyn Wilson, Katrina Downing and Niki Houghton.

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Nursing class of ’64 revisits Waikato Hospital

Source: Waikato District Health Board

A group from the nursing class of 1964 recently gathered at Waikato Hospital in Hamilton to celebrate their 60th reunion. They were greeted by Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Sue Hayward and toured the hospital to see how things had changed. They left amazed at all the developments.

Class of ’64 find their spot on the history wall.

Retired nurse, Judy Osborne, reminisced about the past Emergency Department, “We had a few cubicles and two plaster rooms with x-ray nearby,” highlighting the stark contrast with the current ED, now equipped with 55 beds and five resuscitation rooms.

The nurses found comfort in seeing the hospital chapel, even though the original one was gone. The stained-glass windows had been transferred from the original and brought back memories, especially for one nurse who was married in the old chapel.

The tour ended at the history timeline on the walls of level 2 Meade Clinical Centre, where the nurses traced their journey. It was a trip down memory lane, filled with shared experiences and milestones.

Sue Hayward said it was great to see the camaraderie of work colleagues from all those years ago when it was common for nurses to train, work and live together onsite at the hospital.

Group photo: (left-right) Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Sue Hayward welcoming class of ’64 nurses Lynette Aish (nee Gardiner), Judy Osborne (nee Udy), Paula Butterworth (nee Houghton), Diane Hishon (nee Hillary)

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Arapuni

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Arapuni, and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 23rd January 2024 for Lake Arapuni has now been lifted, after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels are below the warning level. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Wall, Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Health NZ would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lakes Arapuni, Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

A new health warning has been issued today for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) due to a significant rise in cyanobacteria biovolume to 24.46 mm3/L in cyanobacteria levels.

Lakes Arapuni, Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Vipond, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Vipond.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lakes Arapuni and Whangape

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Health warning issued for Lakes Arapuni and Whangape and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Kainui, and Rotokauri.

A precautionary health warning has been issued today for Lake Arapuni, based upon scientific observation and monitoring of the water quality, which suggests a recent rise in the concentration of cyanobacteria.

A Public Health warning has also been issued for Lake Whangape which has seen a dramatic rise in measured cyanobacteria biovolume to 150mm3/L.

Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Elizabeth Becker, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where Public Health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Becker.

“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial health warnings  is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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Country’s first baby for 2024 delivered safe and well in Waikato Hospital

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Waikato congratulates mum, Danielle Nowacki and dad, Connor Williams on the birth of their daughter overnight, believed to be the first baby born in the country for 2024.

Harlee Jean Patricia Williams arrived into the New Year at 12.01am weighing 3.3kgs. Both mother and daughter are doing well in Waikato Hospital and hope to be able to return to their Hamilton home soon.

Pictured are baby Harlee resting on mum, Danielle Nowacki with dad, Connor Williams at right.

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Contractor in place to build replacement mental health unit at Waikato Hospital

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand has appointed Naylor Love as the contractor to build the replacement Adult Acute Mental Health Inpatient Facility at Waiora Waikato Hospital.

The current Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre is no longer considered suitable. The new inpatient facility will be a more appropriate space for contemporary approaches to mental healthcare.

The replacement facility has been designed to provide a welcoming and therapeutic environment for people experiencing mental illness, in accordance with an adult acute healthcare plan that incorporates key cultural elements.

It will have eight internal courtyards, maximising the use of natural light, and space for 64 beds.

It will offer views of neighbouring trees and will be built to the Greenstar Five Star sustainability building standard, as well as the best-practice Australasian Health Facility Design Guidelines.

Construction is expected to begin in mid-2024, after the completion of enabling works, which began in mid-2023 under a preliminary agreement.

The project is expected to reach practical completion by mid-2026. The mental health facility will be built where the Renal Centre is currently sited, in two stages. Work on the second stage will start once the Renal Centre has opened at a new location on the Waiora Waikato Hospital campus, allowing the old Renal Centre to be fully demolished.

The new Renal Centre building is on schedule to enter service in early 2025.

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Wall of Hope unveiled at Waikato Hospital: stories of courage and inspiration

Source: Waikato District Health Board

The Wall of Hope, an exhibit featuring framed photos and stories has been unveiled outside Waikato Hospital’s Critical Care Unit – sharing incredible stories of people who had a journey of recovery from serious illness or trauma requiring hospital care and time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

These inspiring stories offer solace, hope, and strength to all who read them. They are a source of comfort and inspiration, especially for those with loved ones currently undergoing treatment in our Critical Care unit.

A ceremony was held last week to launch the exhibit, bringing together the patients whose stories feature on the Wall of Hope, along with their families and hospital staff, who played a crucial role in their care.

Norbert and Judith Eichblatt viewing wall of hope

Expressing the sentiments of the staff, Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Interim Group Director Operations for Waikato, Michelle Sutherland emphasised the honour it is to receive these stories and thanked the patients and their families for sharing their experiences.

“This wall speaks of courage, strength and love reflected in your journey. There are lots of emotions here today, and looking at these stories has likely rekindled many of those feelings.

“The stories on the Wall of Hope serve as a beacon of support, strength, and inspiration for others facing their own journey of recovery.”

Each patient showcased on the Wall of Hope endured a significant health crisis but, more importantly, has overcome it.

“The Wall of Hope is a powerful reminder for our staff that there are real people behind the work we do,” said Ms Sutherland.

Waikato Hospital trauma director and surgeon Mr Grant Christey expressed gratitude and welcomed the patients and their families, saying, “It’s a privilege to look after them”.

“This is what we are here for. While it’s our job, it’s something entirely foreign to them to have their lives suddenly turned upside down.”

Mr Christey acknowledged the resilience of the patients, highlighting their ability to navigate the challenges and emerge with transformed lives.

“They show incredible strength to not only survive their ordeal but to move forward with their lives. The Wall of Hope is a testament to their resilience and determination.

“Thank you to our patients who have shared their story to give hope and courage to others. It is intended that further stories will be added to the wall in the future.”

Group photo – Patients, families and staff at the Wall of Hope unveiling – L-R Jenny Dorrian, Jane Hoebers, Serety McCudden, Grant Christey, Tash and Karl Muggeridge, Miriama Prentice with her mokopuna Billy and Kohl, Pete Sheely, Judith Eichblatt, Bronwyn Denize, Norbert Eichblatt