By Jena Carr
Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics encourage the Geelong and Barwon South West communities to update their asthma plans during National Asthma Week.
National Asthma Week runs from September 1 to 7 and marks the start of spring, which can trigger people living with asthma and lead to serious health concerns if left unmanaged.
An AV spokesperson told the Independent that Barwon South West region paramedics responded to more than 190 asthma-related cases from September 2, 2023, to August 30, 2024.
AV Emergency Management director Justin Dunlop said around one in nine Victorians live with asthma and that it can affect people of all ages.
“The conditions will change quickly in the coming weeks, so we want everyone with asthma to be ready with a plan,” he said.
“By taking preventative action and taking asthma seriously, you’re making a real difference for our busy paramedics who are facing high demand.
“Everyone’s asthma action plan will look different, and it will help you manage your condition, ensuring you don’t find yourself in an emergency.”
Asthma Australia’s Health Knowledge and Translation director Anthony Flynn said asthma action plans should be updated yearly for adults and every six months for children.
“It sets out your important asthma information in a way that is easy to follow and is a valuable reminder of what to do in case your asthma gets out of control,” he said.
“Following your plan and having regular reviews with your doctor can result in fewer days off from school or work, reduced emergency visits to hospital and less use of reliever medication.”
If someone has difficulty breathing and their reliever medicine is not working, people should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
