LAUSR

Scanning electron microscope image of allergenic pollen (false colours) A30%2 respectively — leading to a considerable burden in terms of reduction in quality of life, functional impairment and mortality; there were 419 deaths due to asthma in 2014. These conditions can be caused or triggered by exposure to aeroallergens in susceptible individuals. “Epidemics” of severe and even fatal asthma after springtime thunderstorms, as seen in Melbourne in November 2016 (http://www.abc.net.au/ news/2016-11-29/thunderstorm-asthma-eighth-persondies-from-melbourne/8074776), are triggered by allergenic pollen microparticles, which (unlike intact pollen grains) penetrate into the lower airways. It is therefore important to understand the patterns of allergic sensitisation and allergen exposure of patients, which can vary geographically as recently demonstrated. This understanding informs advice regarding allergen avoidance strategies (where possible), the introduction of controlling medications to counteract allergen exposure, and the use and selection of allergen immunotherapy.