Brentwood Newsletter

Principal's Report

Thunderstorm asthma season 

 

There is an increased risk of seasonal asthma, hay fever and epidemic thunderstorm asthma during seasons with increased grass pollen levels. In Victoria, this is typically between October and December each year. 

Epidemic thunderstorm asthma events are triggered by a combination of higher grass pollen levels and a certain type of thunderstorm. 

People with a history of asthma, undiagnosed asthma or hay fever are at an increased risk under these conditions. This risk is increased further for people who have poorly treated hay fever and asthma. 

The best way to reduce and prevent symptoms of asthma or hay fever and reduce unnecessary absences from school is to follow an up-to-date asthma action plan or hay fever treatment plan, provided by a general practitioner (GP) or specialist. 

 

Vaping - What can I do as a parent or carer? 

The past four years have seen a 6-fold increase in e-cigarette use amongst Australian teenagers aged 14-17. Fewer than 1% reported vaping in 2018, this rose to 11.8% in 2022. Talking with teens about risky behaviours is important. You may already be good at discussing alcohol, drugs, smoking and safe sex with your teens. Vaping is another topic worth including. 

  • Before you start the conversation, get the facts on vaping. www.vapingfacts.org.au  
  • Ask them what they know about vaping. Be ready to talk about how nicotine is addictive. Not liking feeling addicted is a reason young people want to stop vaping. Answer any questions they have about the short- and long-term risks of vaping and smoking. 
  • Ask what they know about the industry tactics to get young people to vape. Be ready to talk about social media and how vaping companies use flavours to make e-cigarettes attractive to young people. 
  • Remember to stay calm and ask open-ended, curious questions 
  • Keep the conversation positive 
  • Talk to your GP or contact Quitline for support (13 7848 or online via www.quit.org.au) 
  • Reflect on your behaviour too and remember to be a positive role model. 

 

Peter Rhodes 

Associate Principal