The aim of this study was to characterise paediatric emergency department presentations during the 2023 thunderstorm asthma (TA) epidemic, characterised by a sudden surge in wheeze presentations, with analysis of environmental factors. Wheeze presentations totalled 50 (28%) on 12 June and 18 (19%) 13 June. There was no prior asthma in 39 (57%) and no atopic disorders in 30 (44%). There was neither asthma nor atopic disorders in 8 (12%). 44 (65%) were severe or life-threatening. There were no endotracheal intubations and no deaths. High pollen and air pollution warnings were issued. TA poses a significant, sudden health threat, often in children without asthma. A surge strategy is required.
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Stewart et al. (2024) studied this question.
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