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'Thunderstorm asthma' deaths in Melbourne rise to six 'Thunderstorm asthma' deaths in Melbourne rise to six
(about 3 hours later)
The number of people dying in the Australian city of Melbourne from a rare phenomenon called thunderstorm asthma has risen to six.The number of people dying in the Australian city of Melbourne from a rare phenomenon called thunderstorm asthma has risen to six.
Three others are in a critical condition.Three others are in a critical condition.
Heavy rains and winds on Monday triggered thousands of pollen allergy asthma attacks in the state of Victoria.Heavy rains and winds on Monday triggered thousands of pollen allergy asthma attacks in the state of Victoria.
Paramedics and hospitals were stretched to their limits as thousands phoned to report breathing problems.Paramedics and hospitals were stretched to their limits as thousands phoned to report breathing problems.
Thunderstorm asthma occurs in the spring when rye grass pollen gets wet, breaks into smaller pieces and enters people's lungs, causing them breathing problems.Thunderstorm asthma occurs in the spring when rye grass pollen gets wet, breaks into smaller pieces and enters people's lungs, causing them breathing problems.
More than 8,000 people were treated in hospital.More than 8,000 people were treated in hospital.
About one in 10 people has asthma in Australia, with about 80% of those sufferers experiencing allergies, particularly to rye pollen.About one in 10 people has asthma in Australia, with about 80% of those sufferers experiencing allergies, particularly to rye pollen.
Melbourne's current spring season has been particularly wet, creating havoc for asthma and hay fever sufferers.Melbourne's current spring season has been particularly wet, creating havoc for asthma and hay fever sufferers.
Are you in Melbourne? Have you been affected by thunderstorm asthma? Email us with your experiences haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.
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