Dr Mikaela Seymour

Abstract

Sago haemolytic disease (SHD) is a rare but significant condition presenting in sago starch-eating populations in Western Province, Papua New Guinea. Although rare, case fatality rates are high, and no known antidote is available. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but it is believed to be secondary to mycotoxins produced by fungi in old sago. In this case report, a 50-year-old female was treated in a low-resource setting in Middle Fly, with fluid resuscitation and transfusion, making a full recovery without complications. The mainstay of treatment for SHD is intravenous fluid resuscitation and strict fluid balance, which can be achieved in even the most remote Western Province aid post. Increased food insecurity, secondary to climate change, may see the incidence of this condition increase. Therefore, all health workers in Western Province should be comfortable with fluid resuscitation and fluid balance practices

The rural communities in which CHWs are stationed commonly have limited electricity, sanitation via dug toileting and water provided by the local creek in which bathing, washing and cooking all take place. Nevertheless, even in the most remote locations one modern gadget seems omnipresent– the mobile phone.

Dr Mikaela Seymour reflects on PNG Government efforts to recruit international doctors – which she says has disappointed and confused newly-trained PNG medical practitioners who are struggling to find training positions in government-funded health care. She considers Australia’s experience with international doctors and identifies training barriers facing pre-vocational doctors in both countries.

Another vaccine drive could cause resentment among those who feel they don’t need it because “they are not sick”.

This surge in cases is concerning. The majority of the population in Western Province rely on sago to feed their families, and any threat to the consumption of sago could seriously threaten food security in the region.

This surge in cases is concerning. The majority of the population in Western Province rely on sago to feed their families, and any threat to the consumption of sago could seriously threaten food security in the region.

Self immolations are usually very large burns, difficult to treat, and use a large portion of health resources. The patients generally have psychiatric co-morbidities which complicate optimal care and follow up. The severe nature of these burns typically means they are over-represented in the workload of burns staff, and in the budget of Burns units. This poster will examine the cost of self immolation in a large Tertiary Burns referral centre, demonstrating the large proportionate spending on Self immolation compared to accidental burns.