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Mould outbreaks combined with cold winter air could trigger a spike in respiratory problems and illness. Here’s how to prevent it.

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It's been a wet autumn for many of us and with forecasts of a cold rainy winter to come, experts are encouraging us to prepare now to reduce the chances of developing respiratory issues during the colder months.

For those with breathing difficulties, such as asthma, cold air can irritate the lungs and lead to tightness in the chest, difficulties breathing, wheezing and coughing, and increases in mucus. Excess mucus sitting in your lungs can lead to serious chest infections.

To help those at risk, Asthma Australia is partnering with Senior Respiratory Physiotherapist Janet Bondarenko to present a free online class on June 21.

Titled Breathing in Cold Weather, the session will discuss the seasonal problems and provide helpful solutions such as simple exercises that help clear excess mucus from the lungs and may reduce the risk of infections.

Other strategies, including a breathing technique called ‘huffing,’ may be particularly useful for those who also have bronchiectasis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you’d like to be part of the Breathing in Cold Weather discussion, or simply would like to sit in and watch/listen, consider registering for the class online on the Asthma Australia website.

Remove mould using a suitable mould remover, such as:

Asthma Australia is reminding us, especially those of us with asthma, to take safety precautions when cleaning mould, as lingering damp from months of rainfall has triggered serious ongoing household mould problems.

If possible, people with asthma should organise for someone else to do the cleaning. However, if that is not an option, they should be sure to follow strict personal protective measures to avoid health problems.

Mould and mould spores are common triggers for asthma flareups, and are now growing on many walls, furniture, windows, curtains and clothing in parts of the country that have endured ongoing rainfall for much of the year, and flooding.

“The dampness that’s common in many households is a perfect breeding ground for mould, and for people living with asthma, there’s a health risk if that mould gets stirred up and into their airways,” Asthma Australia CEO Michele Goldman said.

“It’s important that mould is cleaned to remove those dangers, but it must be cleaned in a safe manner with the right safety gear to avoid breathing the spores and causing asthma flareups.

“Any irritation and tightness in the lungs, difficulties breathing, feeling fluey, are all potential signs you’ve inhaled mould spores or dust.

“The dangers from the rain are ongoing, often microscopic and hidden, and awareness is vital. Asthma Australia urges people to be aware of those symptoms and contact your doctor if you have any concerns.”

Asthma Australia is advising people to remove mould promptly and as safely as possible, by following these health guidelines. The information is designed specifically for Queensland public housing tenants but is relevant to all of us living with mould.

It there is no alternative for those with asthma when cleaning, always remember to use rubber gloves, waterproof footwear, safety goggles and P2 facemasks. Remember, harsh chemicals such as bleach and chlorine can trigger breathing difficulties and don’t kill spores. Alternatives such as vinegar solutions or clove oil are proven to work. People who have questions about mould and asthma management can call Asthma Australia on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, or can email asthmasupport@asthma.org.au.

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