How patients are harmed by the invisible impact of events thousands of kilometres away

Associate Professor Vicki Kotsirilos
Associate Professor Vicki Kotsirilos.

In April, Forest Fire Management Victoria conducted planned burns to help reduce bushfire risks to the local towns.

It is not unusual during these times for GPs to have more presentations of patients of all age groups with respiratory problems, including asthma, bronchitis and respiratory symptoms — cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, irritation of eyes and sinus congestion.