General News
5 September, 2025
Heightened asthma risk this spring
As locals spend more time outdoors, enjoying spring’s warmer weather and flower blooms, it’ll also mean increased risk of asthma for many others.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) is urging Victorians to update their asthma action plans because the change in season can be a critical time for asthma flare-ups.
AV director emergency management Dale Armstrong said asthma can affect anyone in the community no matter their age.
“While asthma can be life-threatening, for most people it can be well managed with a tailored asthma action plan,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Every plan looks different but having one is essential to managing your condition and avoiding emergency care.”
An asthma action plan is like an instruction manual created by your GP that outlines how to handle flare-ups, monitor symptoms, and provide appropriate treatment.
According to Asthma Australia, the plan covers four main areas.
Instructions for everyday asthma management.
Steps to take if symptoms worsen.
Emergency actions if the flare-up becomes serious.
Instructions for life-threatening asthma attacks.
AV explained that adults’ asthma plans should be updated at least once a year, while children’s plans should be reviewed every six months.
“It’s important to remember that even if your symptoms have disappeared for some time, asthma doesn’t go away — that’s why keeping your plan up to date is vital,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Your GP can work with you to review or create a plan, so I encourage Victorians to book an appointment this spring and be proactive in managing their asthma.”
Spring’s key asthma triggers include outdoor allergens such as pollen, dust and air pollution, as well as thunderstorms. Indoor triggers such as gas cooktops, mould and dust mites can also cause a reaction.
Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness.
It’s also possible for adults to experience asthma for the first time, AV said, urging anyone with hay fever or allergy symptoms like a runny nose or itchy eyes to speak with their GP.
“Taking preventative action not only helps avoid asthma emergencies but also eases pressure on our busy health system,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Remember to always follow your action plan but if you are having difficulty breathing and your reliever medicine is not working, call Triple Zero (000).”
If residents are worried about their asthma symptoms but it’s not an emergency, AV said there’s a range of urgent healthcare options available. These include:
Accessing the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) at www.vved.org.au, which can be used from the comfort of your own home and connects you with emergency doctors and nurses from anywhere in Victoria, at any time, via video telehealth on any device with an internet connection and a camera feature.
Visiting an Urgent Care Clinic.
Calling Nurse-On-Call, which offers free medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number for Nurse-On-Call is 1300 60 60 24.
Visiting a GP or pharmacist who can provide timely non-urgent care.