Health update: COVID-19 and thunderstorm asthma

We are currently seeing increased community transmission of COVID-19 and a heightened risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma events. In response, we wanted to provide a reminder of the preventive measures we can take to reduce the risks within our School community.

COVID-19

The state government has recently advised of an increase in COVID-19 cases across Victoria, which is expected to peak in December. While this is an expected part of living with the virus and the nation has now ended its emergency response, it remains important to take practical infection control measures to protect ourselves and those at risk. In line with state government advice, we wanted to outline the practical steps we can each take to help minimise the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses:

Hand hygiene: Continue to maintain good hand hygiene practices, including frequently washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, and using hand sanitiser when this is not possible. This is especially important before eating.
Air ventilation: Maintain good air ventilation by opening doors and windows to let in fresh air when you can. At school, we will be opening doors and windows in classrooms and indoor spaces where possible, as well as making use of air purifiers.
Masks: Consider wearing a mask, particularly in situations where physical distancing isn’t possible.
Monitor for symptoms: If you experience any cold or flu symptoms, take a rapid antigen test (RAT) and stay at home until your symptoms have subsided. If you test positive for COVID-19, stay at home for at least five days and until you have no symptoms. If your symptoms are getting worse, contact your GP for support. Talk to your doctor if you are at a higher risk of severe illness, as you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines.
Vaccinations: Stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccination recommendations from ATAGI.

For more details and updates, see the Department of Health website.

Thunderstorm asthma

As we are now in the grass pollen season (which runs between 1 October and 31 December), we are seeing an increase in asthma and hay fever symptoms, and there is also a heightened risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma events. People with current, past or undiagnosed asthma or seasonal hay fever are at an increased risk of thunderstorm asthma. We recommend taking the following steps to help manage the risk:

Asthma first aid: Refresh your knowledge of asthma first aid so you understand the symptoms to look out for and how to respond. All Girton staff have completed a dedicated asthma first aid training course via Asthma Australia.
Management plans: If you or your child has asthma or hay fever, make sure you have an action plan in place with your GP, and reliever medication available to use as directed. For students, their medical practitioner will need to complete a School Asthma Action Plan or an ASCIA Treatment Plan for Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) that is lodged with the School and updated as necessary, and they should have reliever medication on hand or lodged at Reception.
Risk forecasts: Monitor the epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecast at VicEmergency. For more information, see the Department of Health website.
High-risk periods: Those with a heightened risk should avoid being outdoors on days with a high risk forecast, particularly before and during storms. Where a high-risk period falls during school hours, susceptible students will be advised to remain indoors in a space with closed doors and windows.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions.

Mrs Alli Williams

Health Services Manager