Spring often presents allergens and triggers for people living with asthma, which can develop into a serious health concern if left unmanaged.
Ambulance Victoria director of emergency management Justin Dunlop said it can become life-threatening if people are without an asthma plan.
“The conditions will change quickly in the coming weeks, so we want everyone with asthma to be ready with a plan,” he said,
“By taking preventative action and taking asthma seriously, you’re making a real difference for our busy paramedics who are facing high demand.”
Common triggers for asthma include outdoor allergens such as pollen, dust, air pollution and even thunderstorms, while gas cooktops, mould and dust mites inside the home can also cause a reaction.
Adults should update their asthma action plan yearly, and for children, every six months is recommended.
Communities can also make a difference by using Victoria’s range of alternative care pathways that are available and located right across the state for health matters that are serious but not life-threatening.
The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department is available online 24/7 at www.vved.org.au
It’s free and connects you with emergency doctors and nurses from anywhere in Victoria.
To learn more about asthma action plans, visit the Better Health website at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionandtreatments/asthma-action-plans.
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