With October marking the start of Victoria’s grass pollen season, Northern Health are reminding Hume and Whittlesea residents to prepare for the risk of thunderstorm asthma.
The season runs through to December 31 and has the potential to bring increased pollen levels combined with particular weather conditions which are likely to trigger potentially life-threatening asthma events.
Epidemic Thunderstorm Asthma (ETSA) occurs when high grass pollen grains are swept into the air by strong winds.
Northern Health emergency management director Jason Amos said thunderstorms play a key role in turning pollen into dangerous particles.
“Storms or moisture break open the pollen grains, releasing ultrafine particles into the air,” he explained.
“These particles are small enough to be breathed deep into the lungs, where they can rapidly trigger asthma symptoms.”
Symptoms can include sneezing, an itchy or running nose, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness.
Northern Health has said while symptoms are mild in some cases, they can escalate quickly and may require urgent medical care, and has urged residents to refresh their knowledge of asthma first aid.
Health experts have also advised those with asthma or hay fever to take preventative steps during pollen season, including using prescribed inhalers even when symptom-free, carrying a reliever such as Ventolin or Asmol, and consulting a GP if asthma is not well controlled.
On high-risk days, staying indoors with windows closed and air conditioners set to recirculate can reduce exposure. Residents are also recommended to check daily pollen and thunderstorm asthma forecasts, available between October and December at health.vic.gov.au.
