Asthma sufferers are being encouraged to start taking flu fighting measures such as vaccination before the peak of winter.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Last year, referrals for asthma support peaked during the winter months, with 64 per cent listing colds and flu as a trigger for asthma, according to data released on Tuesday.
Asthma Australia strongly recommends sufferers get the flu jab as part of their winter action plan to avoid a potentially deadly flare-up.
"We know that respiratory viruses including the flu are one of the most common asthma triggers and can cause asthma flare-ups that require time off work, emergency treatment or hospitalisation," said Michele Goldman, CEO of Asthma Australia.
"If you have not already been immunised now is a great time to get the flu vaccine," said Ms Goldman.
It's also vital that people with asthma take their preventer medication every day, Ms Goldman said.
Asthma affects 1 in 9 Australians and kills around 400 people a year.
ASTHMA AUSTRALIA WINTER CHECKLIST
1. Visit doctor for an asthma review
2. Take Asthma Control Test
3. Take preventer medication every day when well
4. Check device technique
5. Get a written Asthma Action Plan
6. Consider an annual flu vaccination
Australian Associated Press