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Cold and Flu in Asthma – Don’t risk it!
Cold and Flu in Asthma – Don’t risk it!
The flu or influenza is a viral infection that targets the lungs, throat and nose. Unlike asthma attacks, the influenza virus gets passed on whenever you cough, sneeze or make hand contact. But did you know that cold and flu in asthma can be considered triggers?
In fact, those with asthma may experience more severe complications, even if it's mild and even when taking medication. Some of these complications may include:
- Students and employees lose school and work days, respectively
- Ear infection, bronchitis or pneumonia
- Severe asthma flare-ups
- Hospitalisation and even death
Preparing for the Cold and Flu Season
The truth is cold, and flu are common triggers to asthmatic people, but you can play an active role in minimising the risk and the symptoms that follow.
The key to good asthma management is ensuring you're well-prepared for the flu and winter.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
GP Asthma review
You should visit your GP every 6 to 12 months to ensure that your asthma medications are still adequate, as conditions may change over time.
In an asthma review, your doctor will do the following:
- Ask pertinent questions
- Test your inhaler technique
- Confirm if you're taking the right medication
- Assess your asthma control
- Check your Asthma Action Plan
Daily use of your preventer
Preventers work extremely well when you use them every day because they reduce airway inflammation, making them less sensitive and reducing severity.
Less severe symptoms mean you'll be able to control your condition better and lessen the likelihood of flare-ups.
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Do you have an Asthma Action Plan?
An Asthma Action Plan is something you should plan with your doctor to get clear instructions on what to do during flare-ups.
Moreover, part of the program should explain how you can manage asthma whenever you have the flu or a cold.
A written Asthma Action Plan will give you the following benefits:
- Fewer hospital visits and sick days
- Less asthmatic flare-ups
- Better control over your asthma condition
- Less use of reliever medication
Get your Flu Vaccination - Don't Risk it!
Prevent the complications of dealing with both asthma and flu by getting your annual flu vaccine.
It's important to get flu shots yearly in your workplace, school or nearby health clinic as the influenza virus constantly evolves. By doing this, you'll be protecting your family from newer strains that infect your respiratory system.
A recommended time to get the flu shot is from March to June. A timely shot serves as early protection that peaks with the flu period in winter, which runs between June to September.
Everyone is encouraged to get a flu vaccination no matter the time of year since the flu virus circulates throughout the year.
It's especially important for individuals with asthma to get an annual flu vaccination to lessen flu side effects.
Need to organise flu shots at work?
Get your FREE Flu shot!
Free flu vaccination is available for the following group of people:
Aged 65 And Above
This demographic has a greater likelihood of being affected by symptoms caused by seasonal flu.
Pregnant Women
The Australian Technical Advisory Group recommends pregnant women take their flu vaccine before the flu season begins and at any point during pregnancy.
The influenza shot protects both mother and baby during the first few months and lowers the risk of the child being infected in periods where they're too young to be vaccinated.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders can get free flu vaccines between 6 months to 5 years and when they're 15 years old and above.
Individuals Who Have Specific Medical Conditions
Individuals suffering from specific health conditions are more susceptible to serious complications when infected with the flu virus than others, making them eligible for free vaccinations.
Those who are greater than 6 months old and have the following can get a free flu shot:
- Diabetes
- Chronic lung condition
- Blood disorders
- Impaired immunity
- Nervous system diseases that affect breathing
- Severe asthma, including ones that require frequent visits to the doctor or multiple medications
- Children aged between 6 months to 10 years who are taking aspirin long-term
Speak with your physician, vaccination provider or Aboriginal Health Worker to see if you're eligible for the free flu vaccine. You may also ask your territory health department or local state representative about free vaccines for your children.
As of today, there are two new flu vaccines for people who are aged 65 and above. Speak to your doctor about getting the newer vaccines. It's also important to note that all flu vaccines are categorized according to age and that the doctor should ask about your child's age before administering one.
Flu vaccines can be administered through different health care providers, including general practices, pharmacies, community health clinics, Aboriginal Medical Services and more. Employees can get their flu vaccines at their place of work when offered.
To get more information about the National Immunisation Program and flu, call 1800 671 811 or visit health.gov.au/immunisation.
How You can Stop the Spread of the Flu and Colds
You can stop the spreading of highly contagious influenza with three simple steps:
- Cover your sneeze and cough
- Wash your hands regularly
- Stay home if you have the flu to prevent it from spreading
Keep in mind that the flu virus can stay on surfaces such as toilets, lift buttons, door knobs and handrails for up to 48 hours and can potentially spread if another individual touches the surface and then puts their hand in their nose or mouth.
Use a tissue or a handkerchief, or cough into your elbow when you cough or sneeze to prevent the virus from spreading further.
Dispose of tissues into a bin as soon as possible, then wash your hands to eliminate the germs thoroughly.
- Behind the Syringe
- Flu Insights
Introducing Aitor Aspiazu, your go-to flu expert and a Registered Nurse accredited by AHPRA (NMW0001159845). Boasting over two decades of experience in healthcare, Aitor has navigated everything from Emergency Departments to Corporate Wellness Programs—and yes, he’s even battled the flu himself. As the Founder and Lead Nurse Consultant at Corporate Care, he’s the driving force behind workplace health and well-being. No longer in scrubs, he’s now at the forefront of healthcare innovation, leveraging Artificial Intelligence and automation to revolutionise workplace health and well-being. As the Founder and Lead Nurse Consultant at Corporate Care, he’s the visionary behind cutting-edge flu vaccination programs that keep businesses running smoothly. Off-duty, he’s a proud dad and a Padel addict who represented Australia in the World Padel Championship. Trust Aitor; he’s got your back when it comes to flu prevention and modern healthcare solutions.