Cold and flu
The ‘common cold’ is a viral infection, caused by rhinovirus in more than two thirds of people.
Influenza or the ‘flu’ is also an infection caused by a virus however it may cause severe illness compared to the common cold.
Colds and flu can be a common trigger of asthma attacks. Up to 60 to 70% of asthma attacks are caused by viral infections.
RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus that is common during the winter months in temperate climates, but infections can occur all year round.
RSV spreads easily through coughs and sneezes and may cause lower respiratory tract infections. It is often associated with young children, but also impacts people of all ages.
Adults over 60 years of age have higher rates of serious complications with RSV infection. People with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at even greater risk.
Make sure your lungs are in the best possible shape for winter seasonal outbreaks by following these steps.
See your doctor for an asthma review. You can check the health of your lungs and assess if you need to make any changes to your asthma medications and asthma action plan so you stay well over winter.
Together with your doctor, develop or update your written asthma action plan with instructions on how to manage your asthma over winter. A written asthma action plan can help you recognise worsening asthma symptoms and know what to do in response.
Acting quickly can help prevent a mild flare-up from developing into serious asthma symptoms.
Tell your doctor if you have been using your reliever puffer more than twice a week or are having asthma symptoms at night. These are important signs that your asthma is not well controlled.
If you have been prescribed a preventer medication, make sure you use it - even if you feel well.
All adults and children need regular training from a doctor, nurse, respiratory educator or pharmacist to use inhaled medications correctly.
Correct use of inhalers helps medications work properly, can reduce the risk of side-effects and is essential for good asthma management.
The instructions are different for each type of inhaler device. Check the National Asthma Council’s “How-to” video library for a range of instructional videos.
Follow your written asthma action plan - if you don't have one, contact your doctor to check what you should do.
Antibiotics are not recommended for treating viral infections like the common cold.
Disclaimer: It is important to note that information contained in this fact sheet is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.
