Asthma and the flu: What to do to stay well this winter

The Flu can trigger asthma symptoms and cause a severe reaction if not well managed.

Learn how to prepare for flu season when you have asthma and what to do to reduce your risk of getting seriously unwell.

Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the airways and a chronic respiratory condition that can make breathing difficult.

The flu also has a detrimental impact on the airways, and if asthma isn’t well managed, your symptoms can be more severe and lead to complications.

“Influenza affects the lungs and asthma¹ is a disease of the lungs that reacts to stimuli, so if you get the flu, you’re more likely to get severe disease,” says GP and Asthma Australia Board Member, Dr Chris Pearce.

The flu may also trigger asthma in people who have not been previously diagnosed.

“People with the potential to develop asthma that haven’t manifested it yet may develop it in later life, and the flu can in certain cases increase that risk.”

The flu is also more likely to cause pneumonia in people with asthma.⁵

There is currently no cure for asthma, but the condition can be well managed with medications and an asthma action plan.

Being diligent with asthma management, especially in the lead up to and during flu season, can help reduce the risks of getting seriously ill.

If you do have asthma, the best way to stay healthy during the winter is to avoid the flu.

Given the virus is airborne and highly contagious this can be tricky.

Getting a flu vaccination before flu season starts is the most effective way to protect yourself against the virus.

Australian health guidelines recommend getting the vaccine in April or May, ahead of the June-September flu season.² Vaccines are available from your local pharmacy or with your GP. For some high-risk people, including those with asthma, the vaccine is free.²

“Prevention is much better than trying to play catch-up,” says Dr Pearce. “So, get a flu shot.”

Making sure your asthma is well-managed is also key to staying well if you do get the flu.

Talk to your GP if you need help or advice on how to manage your asthma symptoms.

Although there’s no cure for asthma, there are ways to manage the condition and live a happy, healthy life. This can be a combination of behaviours, medications and risk reduction.

Asthma action plan

If you are diagnosed with asthma, your GP or doctor will create what’s called an Asthma Action Plan. This will be unique to you and based on your symptoms, triggers and needs.

The plan details daily asthma management, what to do if your asthma symptoms start, what to do if the flare-up is severe and what to do in an emergency.

The plan will include any medication you might need to address symptoms, how much to take and how often.

Asthma Australia recommends having your plan reviewed at least every 12 months, and every 6 months for children.

“Getting your action plan updated regularly and ahead of the flu season is recommended and make sure it has an emergency plan if symptoms do get severe,” says Dr Pearce.

Asthma medication

Asthma medicines³ generally fall into 2 categories, preventers and relievers.

Preventers, such as inhaled corticosteroids, are taken daily to reduce inflammation and keep asthma under control.

Relievers are used when symptoms arise, providing quick relief by relaxing the muscles around the airways.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s guidance on how and when to use each medication, as effective asthma management relies on using preventers consistently and relievers as needed for immediate symptoms.

Your GP or pharmacist can demonstrate proper inhaler techniques and help tailor your medication plan to your individual needs.

“Asthma management recommendations have changed over recent years. Preventer medication is now the first option, rather than treating symptoms with a reliever once they start,” says Dr Pearce. “Asthma is highly individualised so there’s no generic way to treat every person. Talk to your doctor about how to use your medication most effectively.

”It’s recommended that adults and adolescents always use a spacer with an inhaler. Children of all ages should always use a spacer with both reliever and preventer inhalers.

Risk reduction

“With asthma it’s important to know your triggers,” says Dr Pearce. “For some people it’s exercise, for others they may get symptoms every time they have a cold or from bush fire smoke.”

By identifying what affects you most, you can take steps to minimise your risk⁴, such as exercising indoors during colder months, maintaining a clean environment, and avoiding exposure to known allergens.

“COVID taught us some valuable lessons about wearing a mask in crowded spaces or on airplanes,” says Dr Pearce.

Staying up to date with your asthma action plan and getting a flu shot ahead of the season are also effective ways to protect yourself.

If you're unsure about your triggers, keeping a diary of symptoms can help pinpoint patterns and provide useful information for your next GP appointment.

If you have asthma and you get the flu, it’s a good idea to arrange a telehealth appointment with your GP.

If symptoms are manageable and your asthma is not getting worse, you may not need to see your GP in person.

However, if your flu symptoms are exacerbating your asthma you may need to have an in-person consultation. Your GP can examine you and adjust any medications if necessary.

If at any time you are struggling to breathe, go to the local emergency department or call triple o (000).