Key Findings on Thunderstorm Asthma - Thunderstorm asthma is a real and potentially deadly phenomenon, particularly in Melbourne, Australia [4] - Melbourne accounts for 25% of all worldwide thunderstorm asthma events [9] - Australia accounts for 40% of all recorded thunderstorm asthma events globally [9] Risk Factors - Hay fever is a bigger risk factor for thunderstorm asthma than asthma itself, with 99% of hospitalizations in the 2016 event being patients sensitized to pollen [12] - One in four people in Australia suffer from hay fever symptoms [12] - One in nine Australians suffer from asthma [11] Impact of Climate Change - Climate change is expected to worsen thunderstorm asthma due to longer pollen seasons, increased pollen production (up to 200% increases), and more extreme weather events, including thunderstorms [14][15][16][17] Mitigation Strategies - Reducing exposure to pollen is crucial, including limiting time spent outside, wearing surgical face masks, and closing doors and windows [18] - Individuals with asthma should ensure they have their medication and an asthma action plan [19] - Over-the-counter options like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can help manage hay fever symptoms [20] The 2016 Melbourne Event - On November 21, 2016, Melbourne experienced a catastrophic thunderstorm asthma event, impacting close to 10,000 people [6] - Hospitals saw an almost 1,000% increase in patients, leading to emergency code brown declarations and ambulance delays [6][7] - The event resulted in 10 deaths, half of which occurred before reaching the hospital [7]