Cooler weather often means more time indoors and more respiratory viruses circulating. Autumn is a useful time to check vaccination, medicines, indoor air and the plan you will follow if breathing symptoms worsen.
Review vaccinations and regular care
Influenza vaccination is recommended each year for everyone aged six months and over, with free vaccination available for eligible groups. COVID-19 and RSV advice depends on age, pregnancy, health conditions and previous doses. Ask your GP or pharmacist what is recommended for you.
Reduce the spread of infection
Stay home when unwell, cover coughs and sneezes, wash or sanitise hands and improve ventilation when practical. Consider a well-fitted mask in crowded indoor settings if respiratory viruses are circulating or you are at higher risk of severe illness.
Protect indoor and outdoor air
Avoid smoking and vaping, and ask for help to quit if needed. Check EPA Victoria’s AirWatch during smoke events or poor air quality. People with asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy, older age or very young children can be more sensitive to smoke and pollution.
Keep an asthma or lung-health plan current
Use prescribed preventer and reliever medicines as directed, check inhaler technique and ensure prescriptions are current. If you have asthma or another lung condition, review your written action plan with your clinician before winter. Tell complementary-health practitioners about respiratory conditions and medicines; herbs do not replace inhalers, vaccination or medical assessment.
Know when to seek help
Seek medical advice for breathing symptoms that are new, persistent or worsening. Call 000 for severe difficulty breathing, chest tightness, blue lips, confusion, collapse, or symptoms not relieved by an emergency plan.
General information only. Follow the advice and action plan provided by your treating clinician.