Gippsland gets forecasting upgrade for thunderstorm asthma season

A new automated pollen counter at Federation University in Churchill is now delivering data that will support enhanced grass pollen and epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecasts for Gippsland.

The Churchill site is part of a modernised network which provides data to the Victorian government’s epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecasting system. The system combines grass pollen forecasts with weather data to forecast the risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma during Victoria’s grass pollen season. The system helps Victorian communities, health and emergency services to take timely action to reduce health risks. Issued daily between 1 October and 31 December, forecasts can be accessed via the VicEmergency website and app.

The Churchill automated pollen counter is one of six new counters across Victoria, which has been made possible through funding provided by the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund and the Victorian government.

AirHealth Chief Executive Officer, Dr Edwin Lampugnani, whose team is operating the new pollen counters as part of the system, said “In the past, we were relying on day-old data and manual counting methods. With automation, we can now monitor pollen in a timelier way, giving a clearer picture of risk.”

Thunderstorm asthma is triggered by a unique combination of high grass pollen levels and a particular type of thunderstorm with strong wind gusts. The wind can carry the pollen long distances and when the pollen bursts, it releases tiny particles that are small enough to enter the lungs and can trigger severe asthma symptoms.

Approximately 11% of Australians have asthma, and approximately 25 per cent have hay fever and those people, including those who are undiagnosed, are at risk.

In 2016, an epidemic thunderstorm asthma event swept through Victoria resulting in 10 deaths and more than 3,500 emergency department presentations.

Gippsland Region Public Health Director Dr Alyce Wilson encourages those at risk to take simple, proactive steps to protect themselves.

“I encourage everyone to check the epidemic thunderstorm asthma forecast daily on the VicEmergency website or app and set up a watch so they can receive alerts and up to date advice and warnings.”

“People should also avoid exposure to storms, especially the wind gusts that come before them. During these periods they should go indoors, close windows and doors, and turn off air conditioners that draw in air from outside.”

“People should also follow their asthma action plans or hay fever treatment plans, use preventive medication as directed, and make sure they know asthma first aid.”

To stay informed, the public is encouraged to:

• Learn more about Thunderstorm Asthma by visiting the Better Health Channel website: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/thunderstorm-asthma
• Visit emergency.vic.gov.au or download the VicEmergency App and set up a Watch Zone to receive advice and alerts in your area.