Central Queensland Health is urging residents and visitors to plan ahead, stay safe and use emergency departments only when needed these school holidays.
Nursing Director Patient Flow Sarah Cooling said holiday periods traditionally place increased pressure on hospitals with more people enjoying the outdoors and travelling across the state.
“School holidays are a great time for families to relax and explore our region, but we also see a spike in preventable injuries and emergency department presentations,” Ms Cooling said.
“In Central Queensland, our emergency departments are prepared, but we need the community’s help to ensure they remain available for people with life-threatening conditions.”
Ms Cooling said many presentations can be prevented or managed outside of emergency departments.
“For non-urgent conditions like minor illnesses, sprains or infections, there are faster and more appropriate care options available,” Ms Cooling said.
“We’re asking the community to plan ahead, know their options, and help keep emergency departments available for those who need them most.”
Central Queensland health is reminding the community that a range of free services are available:
- Virtual Emergency Care Service (8am–10pm) – online access to a doctor for assessment, advice, prescriptions and referral for further care
- Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) - available 24/7 for advice, symptom assessment and guidance from a registered nurse
- Nurse-led Walk-in Clinic in Gladstone (7am–5pm) for minor illnesses and injuries, with treatment, some testing and prescriptions available
- Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Rockhampton and Gladstone – for urgent, non-life-threatening conditions, including assessment, treatment and on-site imaging such as X-rays
- Medicare Mental Health Centres (10am–5pm) in Gladstone and Rockhampton – for mental health support, including assessment, brief intervention and connection to ongoing care
Local GPs and pharmacies – for everyday health care, including advice, treatment and medicines.
Public Health Registrar Dr Calan Spielman said winter illnesses continue to contribute to increased hospital demand.
“While respiratory illness cases have eased slightly, Central Queensland has not yet reached its peak and we expect activity to rise in the coming weeks,” Dr Spielman said.
“We haven’t seen the start of the flu season yet, and vaccination remains our best protection.
“Many Central Queenslanders are still eligible for the free influenza vaccination and have the opportunity to protect themselves and our more vulnerable community members.”
“Simple steps like staying home when unwell, washing hands regularly, and ensuring you’ve had your yearly influenza vaccine can help reduce spread and avoid unnecessary hospital visits.”
Free flu vaccinations are available for all Queenslanders six-month and older, including a needle‑free nasal spray for children aged two to 17 years while stocks are available.
“It’s not too late to get vaccinated. I encourage families to speak with their GP or pharmacist and make it a priority these school holidays,” Dr Spielman said.
Community members can find their nearest vaccination provider using the Healthdirect service finder or by calling the National Immunisation Hotline on 1800 671 811.