Australia sees rise in hay fever symptoms linked to thunderstorm asthma risk

Australia has seen a rise in hay fever symptoms over the past 15 years, which is a major risk factor for thunderstorm asthma. The phenomenon gained attention after a severe event in Melbourne in 2016, where 10,000 people sought emergency care. In response to the 2016 event, which resulted in ten deaths, Victoria has increased public awareness and established pollen monitoring stations. Thunderstorm asthma has been known in Australia since 1984, but Melbourne remains the most affected area. While thunderstorm asthma events are rare, evidence suggests they may become more frequent due to climate change. The number of Australians reporting hay fever has also increased, from 15% in 2008 to 24% in 2022.