First Aid

                                                        Thunderstorm Asthma

Grass pollen season in Victoria runs from October to December and can increase the risk of thunderstorm asthma. This can cause sudden and severe breathing difficulties, particularly for people with asthma or hay fever.

To help keep our school community safe, staff will monitor VicEmergency warnings and, where necessary, keep students indoors during high-risk weather. Many staff are also trained in asthma first aid.

How you can help protect your child:

• If your child has asthma, speak to your doctor and ensure their asthma action plan is up to date. Taking preventer medication as prescribed is important.
• If your child has hay fever, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about treatment and whether they need an asthma reliever.
• If your child experiences wheezing or coughing with hay fever, speak to your doctor about possible asthma.
• Where possible, avoid being outdoors during thunderstorms throughout pollen season, especially during strong wind gusts before a storm.

For more information, visit The Royal Children's Hospital – Thunderstorm Asthma.

Nurse Loz