Return of hot sun brings new risks

THE return of the sun will bring a new set of challenges for flood-ravaged Townsville.

Townsville Public Health Unit Director Dr Steven Donohue warned soaring temperatures could make clean-up operations dangerous.

“Going too hard too early on this recovery to the detriment of your health isn’t going to help anyone,” he said.

“We’ve got some seriously hot North Queensland summer weather on the way and with all of the water around the humidity is going to be extremely high.

“The last thing we need is for people to make themselves sick by biting off more than they can chew.”

The Bureau of Meteorology forecast temperatures would range from 31 to a peak of 36C on Thursday.

Dr Donohue said people didn’t need to do anything too elaborate to reduce the risks of heat exhaustion – just get the basics right.

“Try only to work in the early and late parts of the day when the temperature is often cooler,” he said.

“We need people to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, seek shade where you can and keep an eye out on your friends, family and neighbours.”

Dr Donohue also warned people would likely notice an increase in mosquitoes and advised they wore long-sleeved, light coloured clothing, boots and repellent containing DEET or Picaridin.

Wearing boots and gloves was essential, he said.

“The dirt and bacteria … that are in this flood water cannot only make you really sick if they get into your body, they can kill you,” he said.

Dr Donohue said people should clean the wound, apply antiseptic then use a water-resistant dressing and visit a GP.