The North Eastern Public Health Unit (NEPHU) is developing a range of communication tools to improve the effectiveness and reach of public health advice and control measures to the community in north eastern Melbourne.
After the successful implementation of the pertussis text message project, NEPHU is implementing a text message and survey for people who test positive for cryptosporidiosis. The text message contains advice on how to prevent onward transmission of cryptosporidiosis such as avoiding swimming for two weeks after symptoms resolve.
The survey collects information about potential sources of the infection and will facilitate early detection of outbreaks which commonly occur in public swimming pools and childcare centers. This will lead to earlier implementation of control measures which may reduce the size and duration of the outbreak.
The text message will be sent to patients who have received a positive cryptosporidiosis test result. Clinicians are advised to let their patients know that they are being tested for cryptosporidiosis and that they may receive a text message from NEPHU if the result is positive.
More information can be found here.
Please contact healthprotection.nephu@austin.org.au if you would like further information on this project or would like to provide feedback.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by North Eastern Public Health Unit (NEPHU). While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
