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As we head into another winter season, respiratory viruses like RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) remain a real concern – especially for people living with asthma.
RSV is a common virus that spreads easily, but for people with asthma, the impact can be far more serious.
Kellee, 65, lives in Perth. She’s spent her life breaking barriers. She was one of the first women in WA to take on a barbering apprenticeship, before building a long and varied career.
Now retired, she manages both asthma and type 1 diabetes, which were previously well controlled.
But in July 2024, a virus she thought was just a cold changed everything.
“I couldn’t catch my breath”
Kellee’s symptoms began like many respiratory infections – a runny nose, sore throat and congestion. But things escalated quickly.
She developed a fever, began shaking and sweating, and struggled to breathe. By the time help arrived, she needed urgent medical care.
She later described the experience as terrifying – feeling unable to get enough air in.
Kellee was admitted to hospital, where she was diagnosed with RSV and double pneumonia, meaning both lungs were affected. Her condition became critical.
During her hospital stay, she experienced cardiac complications and required intensive care. In total, she spent seven weeks in hospital, followed by rehabilitation before returning home.
Months later, Kellee is still rebuilding her strength with the support of her healthcare team, family and physiotherapy.
Her focus remains on regaining her health and getting back to living her life.
Why RSV matters for people with asthma
RSV is often thought of as a mild illness, but for adults – particularly those with asthma – it can lead to serious complications.
The virus affects the airways and lungs and can trigger asthma flare-ups, sometimes resulting in hospitalisation. Adults with asthma are significantly more likely to be hospitalised with RSV than those without it.
Common symptoms of RSV include:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Fever or chills
- Breathlessness
- Wheezing
If you’re older or living with a chronic condition like asthma, it’s important to take these symptoms seriously – especially as we move into peak respiratory virus season.
How to reduce your risk
Kellee’s experience is a reminder that respiratory viruses can escalate quickly. There are practical steps you can take to help reduce your risk this winter:
- Stay up to date with vaccinations recommended by your doctor.
- Follow your written Asthma Action Plan.
- Keep taking your preventer inhaler as prescribed.
- Use Asthma First Aid if your symptoms get worse.
- Be aware of your asthma triggers and act early.
Talking to your doctor about your individual risk – including whether vaccination is right for you – is an important step.
From 15 May 2026, RSV vaccination will be available at no cost for:
- People aged 75 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over
People aged 60-74, and people aged 50-59 with medical conditions increasing their risk of serious illness due to RSV (including severe asthma), may also get RSV vaccination via private purchase.
Need more support?
If you’re concerned about RSV, or managing asthma during winter season, support is available.
You can speak with an Asthma Educator by calling 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) or booking a call at a time that suits you.
