Saturday 21st, September, 2024: Simon Ruth, CEO Thorne Harbour Health, Health Update

Thorne Harbour Health, led by CEO Simon Ruth, is facing significant challenges, particularly concerning the availability of PrEP, a medication that prevents HIV. In Victoria, many areas are experiencing shortages, including Terrellgan, which has been without PrEP for over a month. This shortage is severely affecting thousands of Australians who rely on this medication for their health. Additionally, there are complexities involved in importing PrEP, as issues with prescriptions can lead to further accessibility problems. As they navigate these challenges alongside budget cuts and the impacts of local elections, the organization aims to address the health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community effectively.

There's a concerning shortage of a crucial medication that people rely on for their sexual health. Although some pharmacies still have it, many are out of stock. The federal government and pharmaceutical companies are shifting blame regarding the supply issues. Despite warnings since January about potential shortages, there seems to be a lack of responsibility from both the government and the companies to ensure availability. Patients are left searching for alternatives without clear guidance. This situation highlights the importance of individuals being proactive about their health needs and making sensible choices when it comes to their medication. Hopefully, more stock will arrive in the coming weeks, but the uncertainty remains.

There's a growing concern about accessing PrEP, a medication that helps prevent HIV, especially as some ways of obtaining it are affected. For those unfamiliar with older methods of prevention, it's important to know how to find reliable sources. Importing PrEP through websites like pan.org.au and Green Cross Pharmacy tends to be cheaper than regular prices. However, it requires planning, such as having a prescription and a credit card, with delivery times varying from one to two weeks. People can also consider on-demand usage if they still have pills available, but need to follow guidelines carefully, since missing doses could reduce effectiveness. Resources like ACON and PANS' websites provide instructions for safe usage, ensuring that individuals take proactive steps to protect themselves.

It's important to remember that during challenging times, like the current health issues with HIV and monkeypox, we have preventive measures available. If you have access to supplies, consider sharing responsibly with friends, and utilize PEP if you're at risk. Vaccination is crucial for preventing severe disease. While abstinence is one option, it's not feasible for many. Get informed about sexual health, stay safe, and use reliable methods like condoms. Remember, there’s support and resources available to help manage these health concerns. Being proactive about your health and that of your community is key during these outbreaks.

Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing severe disease, especially with the rising cases of sexually transmitted infections. While vaccinated individuals can still get the disease, severe cases requiring hospitalization are rare among those who have received two doses. Symptoms like painful proctitis are troubling, reminiscent of past health crises. It’s essential to get tested if experiencing any rash or flu-like symptoms. Awareness and early treatment are vital to manage these issues effectively. Additionally, caution is needed when using dating apps like Grindr, as there are reports of gay bashing incidents. The community is urged to take these warnings seriously and engage in preventative measures like testing and vaccination, focusing on both health and safety.

Snapchat users should be careful with geolocation settings to protect their privacy. The month of November marks Trans Awareness Month, and TGV is organizing events like a ball. Thorne Harbour Health is also looking for board members. In Adelaide, the Feast Festival, celebrating arts and culture, will showcase Chester Weinberg's important contributions to fashion during the AIDS crisis. It's crucial for people to get their MPOCS vaccinations, and those on PrEP should be vigilant. There are resources available online for anyone seeking more information on health and safety measures related to these issues. Community-oriented events are essential for raising awareness, fostering connections, and addressing significant social topics. Everyone is encouraged to participate in these festivals and initiatives to celebrate culture and history while being proactive about health.

In a recent conversation, Simon discussed the importance of addressing the current outbreak and the need for supplies of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to be restored. These issues are vital for ensuring the sexual health of the community. Thanking Simon for his input, the hosts expressed hope that things will improve soon and encouraged listeners to stay tuned to the program. This positive engagement highlights the ongoing commitment to discussing crucial health topics that affect everyone within the LGBTQIA+ community. The hosts also emphasized ongoing support for the program, inviting community members to contribute and keep the conversation alive, indicating the vital role of media in raising awareness and promoting health initiatives. Overall, this interaction underscores the continued need for dialogue and resources in the realm of sexual health, encouraging everyone to remain informed and supportive of one another during challenging times.