Parts of Victoria and New South Wales receive epidemic thunderstorm asthma warning

Charles Sturt University's asthma alert system sent out a notification at 3:32pm on November 7 that thunderstorms are predicted for the Southern Riverina (Albury) region.

Pollen counts are on the rise "from moderate to high today," the alert said.

"To help protect against thunderstorm asthma, avoid outdoor activities, take prescribed medication as directed and make sure you have ready access to your asthma reliever."

Victoria's Department of Health has placed most of the state, excluding Mallee and Wimmera, at moderate risk for thunderstorm asthma for November 7.

Most of the state, excluding Mallee, Wimmera and the South West region, also remains at moderate risk on November 8.

Grass pollen season, from October to December, increases the chance of hayfever and thunderstorm asthma.

Grass pollen grains can be carried in the wind for long distances. They can burst open and release tiny particles which can enter the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breathe.

This can become very severe quickly and lead to many people needing medical help at once.

The Victorian Department of Health website says "people with current, past or undiagnosed asthma or hay fever are considered to be at risk".

"Having both asthma and hay fever or poorly controlled asthma increases the risk further."

The website says those at risk should:

"People should be aware of the heightened risk of thunderstorm asthma in general throughout the grass pollen season and be appropriately prepared," the department website says.

Prevention and asthma and hay fever management is "the best way to protect yourself from thunderstorm asthma."

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