Power-boat injuries to swimmers

Health and safety problems and lack of information among international visitors backpacking through North Queensland

BACKGROUND

International visitors to tropical Australia may be exposed to health and safety problems. Because they are younger, stay longer and participate in more activities, backpackers have a greater exposure to such problems than other visitors.

METHOD

The study's aim was to determine how many backpackers experience problems and lack health and safety information. Four hundred and thirty-one international visitors staying in a random sample of youth hostels and backpacker accommodation in Townsville were surveyed over the summer.

RESULTS

Sixty two percent experienced a health and safety problem, commonly, insect bites, sunburn, headaches, lacerations, coral cuts, ear infections and diarrhea. Seventeen percent resolved only with professional help. Only 54% of backpackers had been offered health and safety information prior to departure, mainly vaccination advice.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of backpackers offered health and safety information about tropical Australia, and the breadth of that information, needs to be increased.

Medical hazards of the water skiing douche

Many injuries can result from water skiing accidents, but the water skiing "douche" is unique to this sport. Although generally causing only discomfort, significant trauma can result from the forceful entry of water into the various body orifices. A case of otitis media attributed to this phenomenon is described. The hazards of vaginal and rectal laceration, salpingitis, tubo-ovarian abscess with resultant infertility, induced abortion, and associated complications are reviewed. In addition to sinusitis, otitis media and tympanic membrane rupture, other potential upper airway and auditory complications are enumerated.