The Victorian Department of Health has issued a high-risk warning of epidemic thunderstorm asthma across the North East and North Central districts of the state for today, Monday, November 2.
It warns people who have asthma or hay fever may experience severe asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing due to thunderstorm activity.
Thunderstorm asthma can be triggered by a combination of high amounts of grass pollen in the air and a certain type of thunderstorm.
Pollen grains are carried long distances in the wind, with some bursting open releasing tiny particles that are concentrated in gusts that come just before a thunderstorm.
The particles are small enough to breathe in, potentially triggering asthma symptoms quickly, even in those who have never had asthma before.
People are advised to carry their asthma relievers with them all day.
Other advice includes:
- Avoid the wind gusts before the storm. Go inside and close your windows and doors.
- Turn off air conditioners that bring in air from the outside, such as evaporative air conditioners.
- Be aware of and act on the development of asthma symptoms including wheezing, breathlessness, tightness in the chest, or a persistent cough, as you may be having an asthma attack.
- An asthma attack is serious and can be life-threatening.
Those experiencing asthma symptoms for the first time are urged not to ignore them.
Asthma relievers are available from pharmacies without the need for a prescription.
People can also use another person’s reliever if need be.
If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, or if you are having an asthma attack and a reliever is not available, call 000 immediately.
Follow VicEmergency’s website, app or social media to stay informed, or call the VicEmergency hotline for free on 1800 226 226.
