Coronaviruses are from a large family of viruses that can make people unwell with respiratory infections.

These include common colds and other more serious upper respiratory tract infections such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

The World Health Organisation is referring to the most recent Coronavirus as COVID-19.

The virus spreads through small liquid particles from an infected person when they cough, sneeze, speak or breathe. It is most likely spread from person to person through:

• direct close contact with a person while they are infectious
• touching objects or surfaces (such as door handles or tables) contaminated from a person with confirmed infection, and then touching your mouth or face
• aerosol transmission especially in an indoor environment with little fresh air such as indoor places of leisure or workplaces where people talk, shout or sing
• infected droplets can also be circulated by fans and air-conditioners that recirculate air

The definition of ‘close contact’ includes those people who live with someone who has COVID-19,

have been face to face with a person infected with the virus for at least 15 minutes, been in the same closed space as an infected person for at least 2 hours or someone who has been informed by WA Health to be a close contact.

You should get tested for COVID-19 if:

• you have symptoms of COVID-19 — even if your symptoms are mild; or
• you have been identified as a close contact, including if you live with someone who has COVID-19, or have had close personal contact with a person with COVID019 during their infectious period:
• more than 15 minutes face to face contact where a mask was not worn
• More than two hours within a small room, with masks removed
• more than 4 hours of cumulative contact with a COVID-19 case; or
• you have been identified as a casual contact and have been directed to get tested by WA Health.
• you have recovered from COVID-19 and develop new symptoms of COVID-19 at least 4 weeks after you have completed your isolation period; or
• you have been advised to do so by a health professional

You may also need to get a test for travel purposes. Check state and territory travel restrictions.

For more information on recent exposure sites, testing and the COVID-19 clinics, visit Healthy WA.

According to the Department of Health people with COVID-19 may experience:

• Fever (>37.5°C)
• flu-like symptoms such as (dry cough) coughing, sore throat and fatigue
• shortness of breath
• runny or congested nose
• headache or muscle/joint pain
• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhoea
• loss of appetite
• temporary loss of smell and/or taste

COVID-19 is a mild illness in approximately 80 per cent of cases — fever and cough are the most commonly reported symptoms. Children may experience milder symptoms than adults.

If you have serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, call 000 for urgent medical help.

Health Direct has provided an online Symptom Checker to find out if you should seek medical help.

The most common symptoms associated with asthma include chest tightness, dry cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. On top of this, according to the National Asthma Council, at least three out of four people with asthma also have hay fever (allergic rhinitis) which can cause a runny or congested nose, sneezing, coughing, sore throat and headache. Therefore, it can be confusing to distinguish asthma and/or hay fever symptoms from COVID-19 symptoms.

As COVID-19, similarly to influenza and other viruses, infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs) you may experience an increase in the frequency and severity of your asthma symptoms if you become infected, and importantly these will usually be accompanied by new symptoms such as a fever (>37.5°C). To be able to distinguish your asthma symptoms from COVID-19 symptoms, it is important for you to be aware of what your baseline asthma symptoms are when you are well so that you will readily recognise when your symptoms are changing.

Consider asking yourself the following questions:

• Is my cough becoming more persistent?
• Is my shortness of breath or wheeze increasing?
• Am I needing to take my reliever medication more frequently?
• Do I have new or worsening nasal symptoms?
• Are other symptoms such as fever and fatigue present?
• Have I been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19?

If you are answering YES to many of these questions you should get tested for COVID-19. Locate your nearest COVID-19 testing clinic by visiting Healthy WA.

If your test result is negative, it is possible that you are experiencing an asthma flare-up and/or your asthma is not well controlled. Ask your GP via a telehealth appointment (if possible) to review your Asthma Action Plan and medications to optimise the management of your asthma.

Asthma WA can also help you get your asthma under control.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE appointment with one of our Respiratory Health Nurses or Educators.

The most common symptoms associated with COPD include breathlessness, chronic cough (>8 weeks) with or without mucus, wheeze and fatigue. When other conditions such as asthma or hay fever are also present, it can make it increasingly difficult to distinguish your usual symptoms from COVID-19 symptoms.

As COVID-19, similarly to influenza and other viruses, infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs) you may experience an increase in the frequency and severity of your baseline COPD symptoms if you become infected, and importantly these will usually be accompanied by new symptoms such as a fever (37.5°C +) or sore throat. To be able to distinguish your COPD symptoms from COVID-19 symptoms, it is important for you to be aware of what your baseline symptoms are when you are well so that you will readily recognise when your symptoms are changing. This is important not only in light of COVID-19, but also for recognising when you might be experiencing a flare-up of your COPD. Having a written COPD Action Plan can help you with early recognition of an infection or flare-up so that you can seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Consider asking yourself the following questions:

• Am I coughing more than usual?
• Has the colour, amount or consistency of my mucus changed?
• Is my shortness of breath or wheeze getting worse?
• Am I needing to take my reliever medication more frequently?
• Do I have new or worsening nasal symptoms?
• Are other symptoms such as sore throat or fever present?
• Have I been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19?

If you are answering YES to many of these questions you should get tested for COVID-19. Locate your nearest COVID-19 testing clinic by visiting Healthy WA.

If your test result is negative, it is possible that you are experiencing a COPD flare-up. Ask your GP via a telehealth appointment (if possible) to review your COPD Action Plan and medications to help you manage your symptoms during a flare-up.

Asthma WA can also help you to optimise the management of your COPD and reduce the frequency of your flare-ups.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE appointment with one of our Respiratory Health Nurses or Educators.

Having asthma or COPD does not make you more likely to contract COVID-19. In Australia, the people most at risk of contracting COVID-19 are those who have:

• been in close contact with someone who is a confirmed case of COVID-19
• recently been in a high-risk country or region

The definition of ‘close contact’ includes those people who live with someone who has COVID-19,

have been face to face with a person infected with the virus for at least 15 minutes, been in the same closed space as an infected person for at least 2 hours or someone who has been informed by WA Health to be a close contact.

Visit Healthy WA for the most up to date list of recent exposure sites in WA.

Data shows that people with pre-existing chronic conditions have a greater risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19. This includes people with chronic lung diseases such as COPD and severe asthma. People diagnosed with mild or moderate asthma, however, are not at a greater risk of serious illness, given that their asthma is well controlled. A recent asthma flare-up or course of oral steroids may be a factor that worsens COVID-19 outcomes This includes a recent course of oral steroids for any underlying health condition because oral steroids may reduce the activity of the immune system and slow the body’s normal stress response to the virus.

People living with asthma and/or COPD should be taking precautions when ANY TYPE of respiratory illness is present in the community. While people with asthma and/or COPD are no more likely to contract COVID-19 than anyone else in the community, contracting COVID-19 may cause a flare-up of their asthma and/or COPD symptoms. For more information on how to protect and prepare yourself for COVID-19 see “How can I protect myself against COVID-19?” and “How do I prepare for COVID-19 outcomes?”

Asthma WA can also help you optimise the management of your asthma and/or COPD.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE appointment with one of our Respiratory Health Nurses or Educators.

For more information on people at risk of severe illness due to COVID-19, visit Health Direct.

The Australian Asthma Handbook defines well controlled asthma as:

• Daytime symptoms less than 2 days per week (cough, chest tightness, wheeze or shortness of breath)
• Need for reliever medication less than 2 days per week (outside of exercise)
• No limitation of daily activities
• No symptoms during the night or on waking

One of the most common reasons for persistent asthma symptoms and flare-ups is poor asthma control. There are several factors that can contribute to poor asthma control including:

• Poor inhaler device technique
• Poor medication adherence
• Ongoing exposure to asthma triggers in the environment
• Comorbidities and complicating conditions such as rhinosinusitis or gastroesophageal reflux
• Incorrect diagnosis of asthma

If you experience daytime asthma symptoms or need to take your reliever medication more than twice per week, experience any night-time or early morning symptoms, or you have any limitations in your usual daily activities, your asthma is likely not under control. Ensuring your asthma is well controlled will help you to reduce the risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19.

Asthma WA can help. Our friendly team of Respiratory Health Nurses and Educators can help you identify factors that may be contributing to poor asthma control and offer you individualised advice to optimise the management of your asthma.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE personalised consultation with our Respiratory Health Team.

“Well managed COPD” can be hard to define due to the variety, frequency, and severity of symptoms people with COPD experience on a daily basis. Your usual symptoms when you are well might be vastly different to someone else’s symptoms. It is important to remember that it is rare for a person with COPD to be completely asymptomatic even when they are well, so “well managed” does not necessarily mean that you have no COPD symptoms at all. On the other hand, you may be so accustomed to the same frequency and severity of symptoms over time that you don’t realise they could be improved.

When considering whether your COPD is “well managed”, it can be useful to reflect on the frequency and severity of any exacerbations (or “flare-up”) you have experienced over the last 12 months.

Your COPD may not be well managed if you have had:

• more than 2 flare-ups requiring a course of antibiotics or oral steroids in the last 12 months
• more than 1 flare-up leading to hospital admission/s in the last 12 months

If you would like to discuss your COPD management, book an appointment with your GP to review your current medications and COPD Action Plan.  This should be updated annually or whenever your symptoms or medications change.

There are also many steps that you can take to reduce the severity and frequency of your COPD flare-ups including:

• Ask a health professional to check your inhaler device technique
• Take your inhalers regularly as prescribed by your doctor
• Avoid exposure to irritants such as smoke, dust, fumes or air pollutants
• Attend Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Asthma WA is here to help people with COPD. Our friendly team of Respiratory Health Nurses and Educators can help you identify factors that may be contributing to frequent COPD flare-ups and offer you individualised advice to optimise the management of your COPD.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE personalised consultation withour Respiratory Health Team.

If your child has been prescribed a preventer to be taken seasonally, we suggest that you visit your GP for an asthma review to discuss when the best time is to commence your preventer. Adults and children diagnosed with mild or moderate asthma are not at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19 given that their asthma is well controlled. Children with severe asthma or those who have had a recent asthma flare-up requiring a hospital admission or course of oral steroids such as Redipred are at increased risk of serious illness from COVID-19.

The Australian Asthma Handbook defines well controlled asthma in children as:

• Daytime symptoms ≤2 days per week (only for a few minutes, rapidly eased by reliever)
• Need for reliever medication ≤2 days per week (outside of exercise)
• No limitation of activities
• No symptoms during the night or on waking

If your child experiences daytime asthma symptoms or need to take their reliever medication more than twice per week (outside of exercise), experience any night-time or early morning symptoms, or have any limitations in their usual daily activities, your child’s asthma is likely not under control. Book a telehealth appointment with your GP to review your child’s medications and asthma action plan.

Asthma WA can also help. The Asthma WA Paediatric Respiratory Hub is a bulk-billed service for children aged 4 to 18 years offering lung function testing (not currently available), review by our Paediatric Respiratory Specialist, and consultation with a Respiratory Health Nurse all in one appointment. Our services are currently only available via telehealth. Ask your GP about whether your child should be referred to the Paediatric Respiratory Hub.

For further information about this service or to book an Asthma Education session, call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600.

Asthma WA recommends taking the following steps to prepare your child for COVID-19 in the community:

• Continue prescribed preventer medication

Stopping or not regularly taking prescribed preventers increases your child’s risk of severe asthma flare-ups, including those triggered by viral infections such as COVID-19. Talk to your doctor if your child has not been prescribed a preventer or if you are unsure when they should be taking their preventer medication.

• Have an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan that you understand how to follow.

Ask your doctor to write or update your child’s personalised Asthma Action plan, ensuring you understand how to follow it. The Action Plan will outline early signs of an asthma flare-up and how what you can do to manage your child’s flare up by adjusting their medication in response to worsening symptoms, and when to seek medical attention. It is important to provide a copy of the Action Plan to your child’s school and discuss the details of it with their school teachers.

• Make sure you have adequate supply and that you and your child knows how to use all the medicines specified in their Action Plan.

Ensure you have a one-month supply of your child’s asthma medications at home and ask your GP or an Asthma WA Respiratory Health Educator to review your child’s inhaler device technique. You can contact Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to arrange a time to review this. For video resources on how to use inhaler devices visit National Asthma Council.

• Ensure that your child is up to date with all recommended vaccinations

The Australian Government recommends COVID-19 vaccinations for children from age 5 once they are available. Talk to your GP for more information about whether your child should have the COVID-19 or other vaccines including the Influenza vaccine. For more information about your child’s eligibility or where they can get their COVID-19 vaccination visit Roll up for WA.

• Arrange for medical appointments to be via phone or video conferencing

Contact your doctor or other health professional service providers to arrange telehealth appointments. These appointments are delivered via phone or video conference. These appointments can be bulk billed through Medicare but ask your provider to confirm whether you may need to pay a gap fee. Your doctor may be able to send your child’s prescriptions direct to your pharmacist or provide a digital script on your mobile phone.

• Have your groceries and other essential items delivered to your home

Groceries: Most major grocery stores offer online and telephone shopping with home delivery. Alternatively, contactless Click & Collect is also available at many stores. Contact your local grocery store or check their website for details.

Medicines: Contact your preferred pharmacist or check their website to find out whether they offer home delivery. You may also be eligible to access the Home Medicines Service. For more information visit WA Health.

• Prepare a COVID-Ready Kit

Preparing a COVID-Ready kit not only involves having access to items at home such as a thermometer or pain relief medications, but also developing a plan for unforeseen circumstances due to COVID-19. For example, this may involve arranging in advance for a friend or family member to look after your children or other people or pets in your care should you need to go to hospital, or having a support person who checks in with you every day when you are isolating. For more information about items and plans to include in your COVID-Ready kit visit Practice Assist.

For more information about Children and COVID-19 click here.

If you need advice at any time in relation to COVID-19 and your child, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline at 1800 020 080 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Adults and children diagnosed with mild or moderate asthma are not at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19 given that their asthma is well controlled. Children with severe asthma or those who have had a recent asthma flare-up requiring a hospital admission or course of oral steroids such as Redipred are at increased risk of serious illness from COVID-19. Research evidence has shown that in those with asthma that have been hospitalised due to COVID-19, developing severe illness was largely associated with increased age and other comorbidities such as high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes.

If you think your child may be at risk, arrange a telehealth appointment with your GP or specialist to review their asthma control and to discuss an Asthma Action Plan. Your GP can also refer your child to the Asthma WA Paediatric Respiratory Hub, which is a bulk-billed service for children aged 4 to 18 years offering lung function testing (not currently available), review by our Paediatric Respiratory Specialist, and consultation with a Respiratory Health Nurse all in one appointment. Our services are currently only available via telehealth.

Alternatively, you can book an Asthma Education Session with one of our Respiratory Health Nurses or Educators to help you identify factors that may be contributing to your child’s asthma and offer you individualised advice to optimise the management of their symptoms.

For further information about the Paediatric Respiratory Hub or to book an Asthma Education session, call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600.

For more information about Children and COVID-19 click here.

If you need advice at any time in relation to COVID-19 and your child, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline at 1800 020 080 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Practice good hygiene by taking the following steps to help protect yourself and others:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, including before and after eating and after going to the toilet
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers
• Wear a face mask when you leave home and as directed by the WA Government
• Avoid touching objects or surfaces in public spaces
• Maintain a 1.5m distance and avoid touching others
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue and dispose of tissues properly
• Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing by washing or using alcohol-based sanitiser
• Avoid contact with people when you or others are unwell
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects such as mobiles phones, keys and wallets

For the most recent updates regarding COVID-19 mask mandates and restrictions visit the WA Government COVID-19 coronavirus homepage.

People living with asthma and/or COPD should be taking precautions when ANY TYPE of respiratory illness is present in the community as viral infections are the most common cause of an asthma or COPD flare-up. A severe asthma or COPD flare-up can be life-threatening and result in an accelerated decline in lung function, longer recovery times and impact negatively on your overall quality of life.

While people with asthma and/or COPD are no more likely to contract COVID-19 than anyone else, it is important to take extra precautions to minimise your risk of exposure to the virus. You may be at increased risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19 if you have been diagnosed with COPD or severe asthma, you have had a recent flare-up or required a course of oral steroids. Visit Health Direct for more information about who is at higher risk of severe illness.

Asthma WA recommends taking the following steps to prepare for COVID-19 in the community:

1. Continue taking your prescribed preventer medication

Stopping or not regularly taking your preventer increases the risk of severe asthma or COPD flare-ups, including those triggered by viral infections such as COVID-19. Talk to your doctor if you have asthma or COPD and have not been prescribed a regular preventer medication.

2. Have an up-to-date written COPD or Asthma Action Plan that you understand how to follow.

Ask your doctor to write or update your personalised Asthma or COPD Action plan. Your Action Plan will outline early signs of an asthma or COPD flare-up and how you can treat exacerbations early by adjusting your medication in response to worsening symptoms, and when to seek medical attention.

3. Make sure you have adequate supply and know how to use all the medicines specified in your Action Plan.

 Ensure you have a one-month supply of your asthma or COPD medications at home and ask your GP or an Asthma WA Respiratory Health Educator to review your inhaler device technique. You can contact Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to arrange a time to review your device technique. For video resources on how to use your inhaler device visit National Asthma Council.

4. Ensure that you are up to date with all recommended vaccinations

It is recommended that people with asthma or COPD are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (if eligible) and keep up to date with Influenza and Pneumococcal vaccinations. Talk to your GP for more information about staying up to date with your vaccinations. For more information about your eligibility or where you can get your COVID-19 vaccination visit Roll up for WA.

5. Arrange for your medical appointments to be via phone or video conferencing

Contact your doctor or other health professional service providers to arrange telehealth appointments, delivered via phone or video conferencing. These appointments can be bulk billed through Medicare but ask your provider to confirm whether you may need to pay a gap fee. Your doctor may be able to send your prescriptions direct to your pharmacist or provide you with a digital script on your mobile phone.

6. Have your groceries and other essential items delivered to your home

Groceries: Most major grocery stores offer online and telephone shopping with home delivery. Alternatively, contactless click and collect is also available at many stores. Contact your local grocery store or check their website for details. The Australian Government has also worked with a number of grocery suppliers to arrange priority access for older or vulnerable people. If you are 65 years or older, you can also access services such as Meals on Wheels through My Aged Care. Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for more information.

Medicines: Contact your preferred pharmacist or check their website to find out whether they offer home delivery. You may also be eligible to access the Home Medicines Service. For more information visit Australian Department of Health.

7. Prepare a COVID-Ready Kit

Preparing a COVID-Ready kit not only involves having access to items at home such as a thermometer or pain relief medications, but also developing a plan for unforeseen circumstances due to COVID-19. For example, this may involve arranging in advance for a friend or family member to look after your children or other people or pets in your care should you need to go to hospital or having a support person who checks in with you every day when you are isolating. For more information about items and plans to include in your COVID-Ready kit visit Practice Assist.

If you are unwell with COVID-19, you should follow directions provided by WA Health or another health professional to isolate even from attending medical appointments. Telehealth appointments are easy to arrange and will help you access the support you need from home.

Contact your doctor or other health professional service providers to arrange telehealth appointments. These appointments are delivered via phone or video conference and can be bulk billed through Medicare. Ask your provider to confirm whether their services are bulk billed or if a gap fee is required. Some private health insurers also cover a portion of telehealth appointment costs depending on your level of insurance. Contact your private health insurer to find out about whether you are covered for telehealth appointments.

Your doctor may be able to send your prescriptions direct to your pharmacist or provide you with a digital script on your mobile phone. Many pharmacies also offer home delivery of prescribed medications. Contact your preferred pharmacist or check their website to find out whether they offer home delivery. You may also be eligible to access the Home Medicines Service. For more information visit Australian Department of Health.

If home delivery of medicines is not an option for you, arrange with a neighbour, friend, or family member to assist with collecting your scripts or medications for you.

Masks are an essential measure to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses to others. It is important to note that the use of masks alone is not sufficient to prevent you from contracting COVID-19 but forms a part of public health measures that should be taken for optimal protection. Other measures include:

• Physical distancing
• Keeping rooms well ventilated
• Avoiding crowds or large gathering
• Stay home if you are unwell
• Practice good hand hygiene
• Cough and sneeze into a bent elbow or tissue
• Follow advice and restrictions provided by WA Government

Take the following steps to ensure your mask is as effective as possible:

• Ensure your mask fits properly with a good seal covering your nose, mouth and chin
• Clean your hands prior to putting your facemask on, and, before and after you take it off
• Store your mask in a clean plastic bag when you are not wearing it
• Wash your mask daily if it is reusable
• Dispose of single-use masks in the rubbish bin (break the elastic first to protect the environment)

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has developed this helpful fact sheet with further information on wearing and caring for your mask appropriately. Click here to view.

The vast majority of people with asthma and COPD are able to wear a face mask, even if their condition is severe. Recent research evidence has indicated that wearing a mask does not cause flare-ups and is not harmful to those living with asthma and/or COPD. One of the most common causes of an asthma or COPD flare-up is viral infections. A severe asthma or COPD flare-up can be life-threatening. Therefore, people living with asthma and/or COPD should be taking all precautions including wearing a facemask to protect themselves against COVID-19.

At Asthma WA we do understand that despite the research, you may feel that you are still experiencing increased asthma or COPD symptoms whilst you are wearing a mask. Don’t worry, you are not the only one, 55% of people who participated in the Asthma and Mask Survey by Asthma Australia had breathing difficulties and 33% had anxiety whilst wearing a face mask.

It is important to remember that there may be a number of reasons you may be having difficulties with mask-wearing, and some of these have very simple solutions. For example, there may be alternative types of coverings or fabrics you feel more comfortable with, or it may be a good time to look at your asthma control. Our team of Respiratory Nurses and Educators can help you identify what might be triggering your symptoms and offer you individualised advice to improve the management of your symptoms and help you cope better with wearing a mask. If you are interested, please give our team a call on (08) 9289 3600 for a FREE personalised consultation.

Asthma Australia has developed helpful tips and breathing exercises that can help you cope better with mask-wearing. For more information click here.

With the increasing community spread of COVID-19 in WA, mask-wearing requirements are being regularly updated and expanded. To keep up to date with the most recent information and updates regarding mask mandates in WA visit Healthy WA and the Western Australia Government website.

If you have asthma and/or COPD you should be taking extra precautions to protect yourself against COVID-19. This includes additionally wearing your facemask when physical distancing is not possible when you or someone around you is unwell and at large gatherings or in crowded areas. There are several circumstances when removing your facemask is acceptable including during an asthma emergency, whilst taking medications including asthma/COPD inhalers, during strenuous or vigorous exercise, swimming, eating and drinking.

It is important to note that the use of masks alone is not sufficient to prevent you from contracting COVID-19 but forms a part of several measures that should be taken for optimal protection including physical distancing, good hand hygiene, avoiding crowded or poor ventilated areas and covering coughs or sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow.

Even if masks are not mandated or required to be worn, it is best to continue wearing them whenever you are in a situation where you cannot physically distance yourself from those around you.

Wearing a facemask is an essential measure to reduce transmission of COVID-19, however with the range of masks available, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of mask to wear. With the increasing community spread of COVID-19 in WA, mask-wearing requirements are being regularly updated and expanded, therefore, ensuring your mask is safe and effective has never been more important.

Types of face masks and their key differences are listed below:

P2 or N95 masks

• Recommended to be professionally fit-tested to ensure correct fit and adequate seal
• Rigid design and tighter fit make it difficult to put on and take off safely
• Can be reused several times as long as it is not wet or soiled

Store-bought medical masks

 Also known as surgical or disposable masks

• Looser fitting and easy to put on and take off safely
• Should be disposed of and replaced after each use

Wearing a medical mask is recommended for those who:

• are over 60 years old
• have underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic lung disease or cancer
• have COVID-19 or are suspected of COVID-19
• are caring for someone with COVID-19

Reusable fabric masks

• Needs to fit the nose, cheeks, and chin well without any gaps
• Three layers of material and only specific material types are recommended
• Daily washing required, or if wet or soiled

Reusable fabric facemasks are not recommended for those aged 60 years and over, people with underlying conditions and health care workers when at work. The main purpose of a fabric mask is to protect others by creating a barrier between your nose and mouth, and the surrounding environment. It offers limited filtering of the air you inhale.

For more information about face masks and how to use them appropriately visit Healthy WA.

To protect yourself and others optimally, ensuring appropriate hygiene practices in relation to mask-wearing is essential. Medical/surgical masks are a single-use item and must be disposed of after every use. Additionally, you should dispose of your mask and replace it if:

• it becomes soiled or damp
• does not fit properly and slides off your face
• there are any visible holes or tears

Knowing how to take your mask on and off is important for protecting yourself and avoiding contamination. To learn how to put your mask on and take it off safely watch this video created by the Australian Department of Health.

It is important to note that the use of masks alone is not sufficient to prevent you from contracting COVID-19 but forms a part of several measures that should be taken for optimal protection including physical distancing, good hand hygiene, avoiding crowded or poor ventilated areas and covering coughs or sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow.

There are various reusable fabric mask designs available for purchase or to make at home. Only three-layered fabric masks and specific material types are recommended for optimal protection. Ensure you follow appropriate cleaning practices to avoid contamination after wearing your mask.

To protect yourself and others, your reusable fabric face mask should be cleaned daily in soap or detergent and hot water of at least 60 degrees C. Avoid using disinfectants or strong chemicals as these may produce fumes that are harmful to inhale. Ensure that your mask is fully dry before use or storing. When you are not using your mask, store it in a sealable plastic bag to avoid contamination. You need to change your fabric mask if it becomes damp or soiled, therefore carrying a spare clean facemask with you when you go out is recommended. Additionally, over time your fabric face mask needs replacing if:

• it becomes stretched and slides off your face
• the material is worn and starts to fray
• there are visible holes or tears
• no longer fits well and requires frequent adjusting

It is important to note that the use of masks alone is not sufficient to prevent you from contracting COVID-19 but forms a part of several measures that should be taken for optimal protection including physical distancing, good hand hygiene, avoiding crowded or poor ventilated areas and covering coughs or sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow.

For further information, view our article on “Fabric Face Masks – what to look for”.

The vast majority of people with asthma and COPD are able to wear a face mask for a period of time, even people with severe asthma. Recent research evidence has indicated that wearing a mask does not cause flare-ups and are not harmful to those living with asthma and/or COPD. One of the most common causes of an asthma or COPD flare-up is viral infections. A severe asthma or COPD flare-up can be life-threatening. Therefore, people living with asthma and/or COPD should be taking all precautions including wearing a facemask to protect themselves against COVID-19.

We encourage anyone who finds wearing a mask difficult to discuss this with their doctor, especially if you think you may be in an exempt category. There may be a number of reasons you may be having difficulties with mask-wearing, and some of these have very simple solutions. For example, there may be alternative types of coverings or fabrics you feel more comfortable with, or it may be a good time to look at your asthma control.

Our friendly team of Respiratory Nurses and Educators can help you identify what might be triggering your symptoms and offer you individualised advice to improve the management of your symptoms and help you cope better with wearing a mask. If you are interested, please give our team a call on (08) 9289 3600 for a FREE personalised consultation.

For further reading asthma/COPD and face mask exemptions visit Asthma WA News Post “Face mask exemptions”.

For a comprehensive list of exemptions from mask requirements visit the Western Australian Government website.

Yes, the vaccine is safe for people with asthma, including severe asthma, and/or COPD. The COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective means of protecting yourself and others by slowing the spread of the virus, reducing the risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19 and protecting people who may not be able to get the vaccine due to medical reasons. Talk to your doctor or specialist team to get individualised advice about whether you should get the vaccine based on your circumstances and medical history.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines available, where to get your vaccine and other FAQ visit Healthy WA.

There is no evidence to suggest that any of the COVID-19 vaccines impact the effectiveness of asthma or COPD medications, including for those with severe asthma that are on monoclonal antibody medications such as Dupixent, Fasenra, Nucala or Xolair.

If you are finding that your asthma or COPD medications are not relieving your symptoms, book an appointment with your GP to review your medications and Asthma or COPD Action Plan.

Asthma WA can also help. Our friendly team of Respiratory Health Nurses and Educators can help you identify factors that may be contributing to your increased symptoms and offer you individualised advice to optimise the management of your asthma or COPD.

Call Asthma WA on (08) 9289 3600 to book your FREE personalised consultation with one of our Respiratory Health Nurses or Educators.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines available, where to get your vaccine and other FAQ visit Healthy WA.

Asthma or COPD medications do not change your COVID-19 PCR or RAT testing result. It is essential that you continue taking your regular prescribed asthma and COPD medications to protect yourself from serious illness from COVID-19. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you need to isolate immediately and follow WA health directions.

For further reading see our related FAQs:

• Risks for people with asthma and/or COPD
• Preparation and Prevention
• Testing positive for COVID-19

For more information about the types of COVID-19 tests available, when you should get tested and where visit Healthy WA.

If you are diagnosed with asthma and/or COPD and have been prescribed inhaled reliever medications such as Ventolin (salbutamol), you should continue to take your medication as outlined in your asthma or COPD Action Plan. The most common cause of an asthma or COPD flare-up is a viral infection, so your symptoms are likely to flare up when you become infected with COVID-19. Your Action Plan will help you determine what to do when your symptoms flare up.  If you do not have an Asthma or COPD Action Plan in place, book an appointment with your GP for a review of your medications and to discuss an action plan. This is an important step to take to prepare for COVID-19 infection.

If you have not been diagnosed with asthma or COPD, and have not been prescribed inhaled reliever medications, Asthma WA recommends against using these medications to relieve your COVID-19 symptoms. If you think you may have asthma and/or COPD, and have not been previously diagnosed, book an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns and consider further investigations and whether you would benefit from asthma or COPD medications.

See our related COVID-19 FAQs for further reading:

• Risks for people with asthma and/or COPD
• Preparation and Prevention
• Testing positive for COVID-19

For more information on managing COVID-19 visit Health Direct.

Viruses are a very common cause of asthma flares. However, the number of people with asthma that have had serious infections with COVID-19 has been far lower than would have been expected from an infection like ‘flu’. Part of the reason for this appears to be the protective effects of inhaled corticosteroids such as budesonide (Pulmicort) and ciclesonide (Alvesco). Research trials have shown that even people without asthma that start taking inhaled corticosteroids when they are diagnosed with COVID-19 appear less likely to deteriorate and have severe disease. It is, therefore, more important than ever that people take their preventative treatment regularly for asthma. If your friend or family member needs inhaled steroids for COVID-19 and they do not have asthma then their GP or specialist will provide this. Never share your medicines with somebody else.

Very large observational studies involving hundreds of thousands of people suggest that individuals with asthma that have had a course of oral corticosteroids in the last year appear more likely to be admitted to hospital with COVID-19. They also appear more likely to need to go to the intensive care department if they are admitted. The size of the risk is not huge but it increases with the more steroid tablets people have been exposed to. It is uncertain as to why taking tablet steroids is a risk factor, but it appears most likely that it is a marker of poor asthma control, not the steroids themselves. Indeed, the cornerstone of treatment for COVID-19 causing lung damage and the need for oxygen is giving steroids. Important collaborative research continues to progress in this space, and we hope to have more clarity soon on this question.

Please only take oral steroid tablets if you have specifically been asked to by your GP or specialist. Never use some that you have leftover from a previous course without consulting your healthcare professional.

See our related COVID-19 FAQs for further reading:

• Risks for people with asthma and/or COPD
• Preparation and Prevention
• Testing positive for COVID-19

For more information on managing COVID-19 visit Health Direct.

The COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccinations can be co-administered (given on the same day.

Studies show that co-administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines is safe and produces a good immune response.

Read more at the Department of Health.

With the increasing COVID-19 community spread in WA, daily PCR and RAT testing numbers are increasing which means many people are waiting in isolation for their test result or may already know that they have tested positive for COVID-19. Being prepared and knowing what to do next can help to minimise stress during uncertain times.

Here’s what you need to do if you have tested positive to COVID-19:

• Isolate immediately and follow WA Health directions

Isolation timeframes may vary according to your individual circumstances and the severity of your symptoms. Visit the Western Australian Government website to determine your isolation requirements.

If you have tested positive through RAT testing, you need to register your positive test result with the Department of Health here.

• Let your close contacts know

Let any close contacts know that you have tested positive for COVID-19. This may include household members, friends, family, and work contacts. Close contacts and household members must also get tested, isolate and follow WA Health directions.

• Monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if required

Arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you daily over the phone to help you monitor your wellbeing and COVID-19 symptoms, particularly if you live alone. There are a range of ways to access medical support if you have tested positive for COVID-19 including contacting your GP for telehealth consultations, registering for COVID-19 Care at Home), using the National Coronavirus Helpline (1800 020 080), going to hospital and, in emergencies, calling an ambulance.

For further information on managing COVID-19 visit Health Direct.

Mild symptoms

If your symptoms are mild, you can manage your recovery at home in the same way you would manage the flu; with rest, over the counter medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, staying hydrated and use of cough medicines if required.

Moderate to severe symptoms

If your symptoms are moderate to severe, you may require further medical care. The COVID-19 Symptoms Checker can help you determine whether you should seek further assistance.

Seeking medical advice and support

 It is important to arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you daily over the phone to help you monitor your wellbeing and COVID-19 symptoms, particularly if you live alone. There are a range of ways to access medical support if you have tested positive for COVID-19, this includes:

Contacting your GP:

Most GPs can provide telehealth consultations over the phone or via video conferencing for advice on managing your symptoms or other health conditions. Your GP can also send scripts to your preferred pharmacist where you can arrange for a support person (who is not in isolation) to pick up and deliver your medications contactless to your door. Alternatively, contact your pharmacist to see if home delivery is an option for you.

• COVID-19 Care at home:

You may be eligible for the WA COVID Care at Home program which provides telehealth support and monitoring for people who may have risk factors that put them at greater risk of severe illness or hospitalisation.

• Going to hospital:

If you need to go to hospital, call ahead and inform the emergency department that you have COVID-19 and are on your way. If possible, ask a household member to drive you and go directly to the hospital without any stops. If safe to do so, you should both wear a mask.

• Calling an ambulance:

In the case of an emergency, where you require immediate medical attention due to severe symptoms or other medical conditions, call triple zero (000) ensuring you inform the call centre and ambulance officers that you have COVID-19.

• National Coronavirus Helpline:

If you need advice at any time, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline at 1800 020 080 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For further information on managing COVID-19 visit Health Direct.