Hume and Whittlesea residents with asthma or hay spring fever are urged to check in with their local GP or pharmacist to gear up for the upcoming grass pollen season.
Typically running from the start of October until the end of December, the spring pollen season brings with it an increase in asthma and hay fever symptoms, as well as an increase in the chance of individuals suffering from thunderstorm asthma.
When a significant number of people develop asthma symptoms over a short period of time, caused by high amounts of grass pollen and a certain type of thunderstorm, it is known as epidemic thunderstorm asthma.
Victoria’s deputy chief health officer Dr Angie Bone said it is essential for those who have suffered from thunderstorm asthma before to take any appropriate precautions.
“It’s important for anyone who has or has ever had asthma, or spring hay fever, or who might sneeze or wheeze during pollen season, to talk to their GP or pharmacist now about what they can do to protect themselves,” she said.
“This can include updating your asthma action plan, which should be reviewed each year for adults or every six months for children.”
People who have asthma are reminded to take their asthma preventer regularly, always carry their reliever puffer with them and know what to do if they develop an asthma attack – follow your asthma action plan.
“We know our hospitals are currently experiencing increased demand due to COVID-19 and other illnesses, so it’s important people at risk take steps to protect themselves and those in their care ahead of time,” Dr Bone said.
Details: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/thunderstorm-asthma
