Victorians warned to prepare for thunderstorm asthma season

Hay fever and asthma sufferers in Victoria are being urged to take adequate precautions ahead of thunderstorm asthma season.

The current outlook is that Victoria will have an average grass pollen season this year, but authorities are warning conditions can change rapidly.

Melbourne experienced the world's largest epidemic thunderstorm asthma event in November 2016 when 10 people died after developing breathing difficulties.

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Thunderstorm asthma events typically occur from October when pollen is drawn into the atmosphere and dispersed through a storm.

National Asthma Council Australia Director and respiratory physician Professor Peter Wark said it was time to get on top of your asthma action plan.

"The best defence that Victorians with seasonal hay fever or asthma can have as they head into thunderstorm asthma season is good day-to-day control of their conditions, so keep taking your preventer medication as prescribed by your doctor.

"A blue reliever inhaler does not stop the inflammation that causes asthma and will not prevent an asthma attack."

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Wark said hayfever and asthma sufferers should check in with their GP to review an asthma plan to ensure they know what to do during a spring thunderstorm or asthma emergency.

People can check the Melbourne Pollen website or use the Melbourne Pollen Count app to ensure they avoid undue respiratory distress.

The forecasting system enables people who have asthma or seasonal hay fever – and who are at risk – to plan ahead and reduce their risk.