getting ready for thunderstorm asthma season

Thunderstorm asthma season occurs between October – December. Thunderstorm asthma is when heavy storms occur on a day with a very high pollen count, and cause symptoms of an asthma attack.

While thunderstorm asthma events are uncommon, and don’t occur every year, it’s important to know the risks and what to do to stay safe.

Who is at risk?

• people with asthma
• people with undiagnosed asthma (people who have asthma symptoms but have not yet been diagnosed with asthma)
• those who have had asthma in the past
• people with hay fever who may or may not have asthma

What can I do to protect myself?

• speak with your doctor about your asthma action plan and know the four steps of asthma first aid (external link)
• avoid being in storms, especially the strong wind before it
• have an asthma reliever puffer available (as discussed with your doctor or pharmacist)

 How will I know if there is going to be a thunderstorm asthma event?

For up to date information on thunderstorm asthma risk visit the VicEmergency website or download the VicEmergency app from Google Play or the App Store and set up a ‘watch zone’.

Where can I get help?

• In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
• Your doctor (GP)
• cohealth’s Community Asthma Program for children under 18
• NURSE-ON-CALL for expert health information and advice – call 1300 60 60 24
• National Home Doctor Service for after hours home GP visits (bulk billed) – call 137 425