General News
10 February, 2026
Bushfire smoke heightens risk of asthma attacks for vulnerable residents
Experts are warning bushfire smoke impacts the community’s most vulnerable, including those with asthma and the elderly, while offering tips for how everyone can help.
The impact of bushfires goes beyond the fireground, instead it’s carried in the smoke, and how it dramatically increases the risk of asthma attacks.
According to Asthma Australia, people over 65 years old or 14 and under, those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions including asthma, and pregnant people are the most at risk of bushfire smoke.
Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has described bushfire smoke as a “toxic brew” that can trigger symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing or wheezing.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Central Goldfields Shire is an aging community compared to the state and country average, meaning a higher percentage of residents are at risk of bushfire smoke.
The fastest growing population locally, according to Maryborough District Health Service’s (MDHS) executive director medical services Dr Alan Corbett, are 70 to 74 year olds.
He said older adults are vulnerable due to several factors, including pre-existing conditions which risk flare ups, reduced lung function caused by aging, and heat sensitivity.
“Older adults may also take longer to recover from smoke exposure, which is why we encourage early support and careful monitoring of symptoms during smoky periods,” Dr Corbett said.
While anyone with asthma is encouraged to have an up-to-date asthma action plan and to keep medications readily available the wider community can also help.
“Looking out for one another is especially important during smoke events. MDHS encourages community members to check in on vulnerable neighbours, relatives and anyone with known breathing or heart conditions,” Dr Corbett said.
Helping those vulnerable on smoke days to stay indoors, with the windows and doors closed, can significantly reduce symptoms.
“Simple actions such as offering to collect groceries, sharing trusted local health advice, or encouraging people to stay indoors can help reduce health risks,” he said.
People can monitor the air quality and smoke levels in real time through trusted sources like VicEmergency, AirRater, or Environment Protection Authority’s AirWatch — all helping residents make safer choices.
These resources should also be checked before airing out a home after a smoke event.
Beyond this, Dr Corbett said awareness of the danger signs of adults with asthma was essential.
If someone has difficulty speaking in full sentences, blue lips, or extreme exhaustion/gasping then call Triple Zero (000).
If someone’s reliever lasts less than three hours, too, they should see a doctor immediately.
The National Asthma Council of Australia’s ‘Bushfires and asthma’ leaflet offers more information and is available online or in hard copy by request at a local GP practice, pharmacy, or hospital.
“This is essential reading for anyone with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions,” Dr Corbett said.
Further information can also be found by contacting Asthma Australia on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) or by visiting asthma.org.au