Better Breathing Magazine Spring 2020

Spring 2020 Spring 2020

Better Better Breathing Breathing

Breathe Better September launches!

Missing out on your CPD points?

Virtual option planned for NZ Respiratory Conference

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o Friend r first s! u o g cin au trodu ion eH Pg 7 In Foundat

Pg 8 Spring is th e time for getti ng out in the garden, bu t what are the da ngers?

Our Team Chief Executive Letitia Harding

In this issue...

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Office Administrator Catherine Fell

Breathe Better September!

Breathe Better September is back for another year! We share a few of our Better Breathing Hero stories to kickstart the month.

Donor Relations Coordinator Ruby Parker

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Research and Education Manager Joanna Turner

Grants and Fundraising Manager Harriet Cartwright PR and Comms - Head of Marketing Hannah Soult Marketing & Communications Coordinator Victoria Fairweather Marketing and Partnerships Advisor Grant Steere Medical Director Dr Stuart Jones, MBChB, PhD, FRACP Chief Cultural Advisor –­­ Māori Sir John Clarke, KNZM, CNZM Level 2, The Woolstore, 262 Thorndon Quay, Wellington 6011 PO Box 1459, Wellington 6140 04 499 4592 ARFNZ.org.nz asthmaandrespiratoryfoundation asthmafndation asthmaandrespiratoryfoundation

ISSN 2703-4127 This magazine could not be produced without the generous funding of The Lion Foundation

Pg 10 What typ e of mask shou ld you wear in public?

Community News New Pasifika asthma research gets the green light, and we send our respiratory resources rural!

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Health Professional News The long awaited NZ Asthma Guidelines are finally published! Read all about the landmark changes as to how we treat adult asthma.

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NZ Respiratory Conference 2020 We sat down with three of our conference speakers and found out what they are most looking forward to this NZRC.

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Introducing Friends of the Foundation We are pleased to announce the launch of our business sponsorship programme!

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Understanding Legionnaire’s Disease Many of us have heard of it, but what exactly is Legionnaire’s disease?

do Howse a I u flow k pea eter? m 12 p.

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Allergy Tips for Spring Spring has officially sprung, and so have those allergy triggers! Read about how you can reduce your exposure here.

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Do I need to wear a mask?

In a COVID-19 world, the way we approach everyday life is rapidly changing. We delve into different types of masks and how these impact those with respiratory disease.

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Warming up Kiwi Homes Learn all about the new healthy homes initiative; Warmer Kiwi Homes, and how you can warm up your home for less.

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How do I use my....

Part one of an ongoing series, we break down the steps in using a peak flow meter.

Coming up...

1 Sept Breathe Better September launches 14 Sept Māori Language Week 21 Sept World Sign Language Week 5 - 6 Nov NZ Respiratory Conference 18 Nov World COPD Day

Did you realise you can also read this magazine online?

Head to the link below to view every issue of Better Breathing Magazine! issuu.com/betterbreathing

ARFNZ CE, Letitia Harding

Letitia’s Message I

hope you have all managed to keep colds and flus at bay over the winter months, and I am sure you are now all eager for the warmer spring weather which is just around the corner.

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly shone a spotlight on respiratory health and how important it is to look after our lungs. This is why this year’s Breathe Better September campaign, and raising awareness of respiratory health is more important than ever. Take a look at page 2 to find out how you, your friends and colleagues can get involved and become a ‘Better Breathing Hero’. Breathe Better September is a fun way to challenge yourself and others to improve lung function and raise funds to support New Zealanders with respiratory conditions at the same time.

Thanks to De’Longhi NZ we were able to give away a brand new De’Longhi Tasciugo AriaDry 2-in-1 dehumidifier to one lucky donor in our Winter Raffle!

Well, a lot has been happening here at the Foundation - in June we published the highly anticipated New Zealand Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines and the updated Child Asthma Guidelines.

These will be followed by New Zealand’s first COPD guidelines later in the year.

Presenting medical information and research findings in a way that works for the general public, as well as their healthcare providers is important to us, and after 56 years, the Foundation understands how to do this effectively.

Health literacy is an essential part of empowering people to improve their own health, from the very young to the very old, for all cultures and ethnicities.

This is why we were so excited to be able to connect with some of our harder-toreach communities by disseminating over 26,000 free resources to rural, iwi and Pasifika Health Centres, early childhood education providers (ECEs), and Māori medium primary schools. Many of these resources were translated into Te Reo Māori and Samoan, and we hope to have more language translations in the future access to health education should not be a barrier to healthcare.

Of course, a big thank you always has to go to our generous grant providers, donors and sponsors. We certainly could not do what we do without you, this is why I would like to say a special thank you

to De’Longhi for once again offering us an online prize – the De’Longhi Tasciugo AriaDry 2-in-1 dehumidifier which raised over $1,000 for the Foundation.

This brings me to a very special announcement – the Foundation is pleased to launch the inaugural ‘Friends of the Foundation’ sponsorship programme, which you can learn more about on page 6.

By working with business partners who align with the Foundation’s values, and dedication to improve respiratory health for all New Zealanders, we can truly make a difference.

You will be hearing more about Friends of the Foundation from me over the coming months.

Heading into the election on 17 October, a big focus for the Foundation will be to continue to raise our concerns to Government around the lack of funding, and value placed on NGOs in the health sector. We know that the next 12 months in the COVID-19 environment will be challenging, as we all struggle to fund the crucial services we provide.

Here at the Foundation, we work hard to deliver information and support to the 700,000 people living in New Zealand who are affected by a respiratory illness - and we will keep working hard to support them.

Noho ora mai ra

Letitia Harding

Better Breathing 1

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espiratory conditions affect so many New Zealanders – chances are that either you, a friend or a family member have been affected by asthma or another respiratory disease. Breathe Better September is the Foundation’s annual appeal month where we ask fellow Kiwis to help us to raise funds and awareness to support the 700,000 Kiwis who live with a form of respiratory disease.

This Breathe Better September we are encouraging all Kiwis to become ‘Better Breathing Heroes’ and start thinking about how they can improve their respiratory health with an active ‘Better Breathing Challenge’.

To get involved, all you need to do is sign up online as a Better Breathing Hero and set an active Better Breathing Challenge for the month of September. Once you have set up your fundraising profile, share the word around your friends and whānau and encourage them to donate towards your challenge. What’s even better, if you raise $20 or more, you automatically go into the draw to win some fabulous prizes!

So far over 50 individuals and teams have signed up to become a Hero and complete a Better Breathing Challenge this September, here are some of their stories...

Malakai and TJ Davidson, who live on the Kapiti Coast, have both had asthma since they were pre-schoolers. Their asthma flare-ups are often exercised induced, however cold weather and viruses also trigger symptoms. Malakai has set the challenge of doing 100 sit-

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ups a day, and TJ is doing 100 star jumps a day. They’re involved in Breathe Better September to raise awareness about asthma and so they can “help all the kids to breathe properly”.

Nine year old Quinn Kara-Taihia from Hamilton has chronic asthma which has set him back from doing so many activities with his siblings and friends. “My challenge for Breathe Better September is to be able to do lot more outdoor activities without having asthma flare-ups” says Quinn. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all my whānau who have been supporting me with my illness and also to the staff at Waikato Hospital especially my Paediatric Doctor, Dr Alex Wallace who’s been a massive part of my life, and Asthma Waikato who have also gone above and beyond for myself and my whānau.”

Aimee Blok from Auckland has had asthma since she was born.

She has found that keeping fit has helped her manage her asthma and she even owns her own gym! “I am taking part in the Breathe Better September Challenge as I want to raise not only funds, but awareness for those in New Zealand who live with respiratory illness” says Aimee, “I want to give them and their families hope with my story that living with asthma doesn’t mean you can’t participate in exercise, but exercise should be used to help improve the strength of your lungs plus help you understand breathing to improve symptoms.” Aimee says that her challenge of walking 50km over the month of September isn’t extravagant, however it’s a sustainable and achievable goal.

To donate towards our Heroes or to become a Hero yourself, visit breathebetterseptember.co.nz

From left to right: Our Better Breathing Heroes, TJ and Malakai Davidson, Quinn Kara-Taihia, and Aimee Blok

Respiratory Community News Pasifika research gets green light A Massey University led study has been awarded $971,541 by the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC) to explore the barriers to self-management of asthma in Pacific children.

Asthma prevalence in New Zealand is among the highest in the world with one in nine adults and one in seven children affected, with a disproportionately high and persistent burden among Pacific and Māori populations.

Principal investigator Dr Sunia Foliaki, Research Officer at Massey’s Centre for Public Health Research says the 36-month study will assess the availability and usage of asthma self-management plans.

Image Source: South Pacific Tourism Exchange

“As part of the study, we will conduct focus groups and interviews to gain a broader insight into the barriers and facilitators to selfmanagement of asthma from the perspective and experiences of asthma clients, parents and health care providers,” says Dr Foliaki.

Respiratory resources go rural

Get crafty and be in to win!

In July, the Foundation distributed more than 26,000 free resources to rural communities or those deemed to have increased rates of respiratory disease.

We are pleased to announce that entries to our Better Breathing Art Competition are now open as part of Breathe Better September!

We know that improving health literacy and access to information such as online, in print, or in-person, is important to reduce inequities and empower people to self-manage their own respiratory health.

This year’s theme is ‘Te Hā Ora - The Breath of Life’, and we want to know what it looks like to have healthy lungs and better breathing!

You can choose any medium to express this – drawing, collage, painting – the opportunities are endless!

A Ministry of Social Development (MSD) grant enabled the Foundation to send the resources to 120 rural, iwi and Pasifika Health Centres, 120 early childhood education providers (ECEs), and 79 Māori medium primary schools in areas where respiratory disease is most prevalent.

Massive thanks to the team at Apex Medical (Daniel and Taro pictured above) for distributing these resources for us.

Each category winner will receive a brand new scooter, kindly donated by Micro Scooters Australia & NZ (valued between $169 - 229 each) AND have their art featured in Better Breathing Magazine!

Entries are open now until 30 September. For more information on how to enter visit: breathebetterseptember.co.nz

Better Breathing 3

Health Professional News NZ Asthma Guidelines now available

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arlier in June, the much-awaited New Zealand Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines were published in the New Zealand Medical Journal on 26 June 2020 signalling the biggest change to asthma management in New Zealand for 30 years.

The Guidelines provide recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of asthma in adults and adolescents aged 12 and above, and were developed by Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ alongside a multidisciplinary group of respiratory health experts led by Professor Richard Beasley, Chair of the Guidelines group, member of ARFNZ’s Scientific Advisory Board, and Director of the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand.

The recommendations are based on recent advances in knowledge, while also addressing asthma management’s greatest challenges: patient education, follow-up, compliance, and selfmanagement.

The major change is the recommendation to use a single 2-in-1 inhaler, containing both a preventer and a reliever medicine, to treat asthma symptoms. This is based on clinical trials, which showed that a budesonide/formoterol inhaler, taken as needed, reduces the risk of a severe asthma attack by between 30 and 60% compared to usual reliever inhalers.

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Professor Beasley recommends that recalling patients who just use a blue reliever inhaler and replacing it with a combination inhaler should be the immediate priority for health professionals in New Zealand.

The development of New Zealand’s first COPD guidelines are also underway, led by Professor Bob Hancox from the University of Otago.

These Guidelines will provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis, assessment, and management of COPD in New Zealand. The COPD Guidelines are due to be published in the New Zealand Medical Journal later this year.

All of these guidelines align the latest research with specific New Zealand context, and will be used for patient self-management plans, as well as training courses and tools for health professionals.

Summaries of the Child Asthma Guidelines, and Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines are now available for health professionals in the ‘NZ Asthma Guidelines Quick Reference Guide’. The COPD Guideline summary will be available once the COPD guidelines are published.

The full Guidelines, Quick Reference Guide, and updated Asthma Action Plans are all available to order for free (some postage costs apply) or to download at: www.nzrespiratoryguidelines.co.nz.

Conference Speaker Q&A R

As a presenter, what gems do you hope to impart that will make an impact in the everyday lives of respiratory patients?

The Foundation caught up with three of our conference speakers, Amy Chan, Sarah Mooney, and Noelene Rapana, as they filled us in on what they are looking forward to this conference, and what gems they have to share with us with their upcoming presentations.

Amy – I am presenting on the management of asthma in the digital realm, which focuses specifically on the role of digital technology and online innovations in the management of asthma. I hope that by sharing my experiences and research in this area, it will stimulate ideas and discussions about new ways that patients can manage their health and the tools that we can use to ensure patients can make the best possible use of the resources they have to aid in the management of their health.

egistrations are still open for the NZ Respiratory Conference (NZRC), to be held this 5 and 6 November, at Te Papa, Wellington. This year’s conference theme is ‘Building the Foundation for Better Breathing’ after the release of the 2020 Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines, the revised Child Asthma Guidelines, and the soon to be released first-ever New Zealand COPD Guidelines.

What are you most looking forward to about the NZ Respiratory Conference 2020?

Amy - It has been a challenging time for everyone with the events of COVID-19 affecting everyone’s day-to-day and adjusting to the ‘new normal’.

I am most looking forward to having discussions with other world leading experts in the field of respiratory health and to have the opportunity to share the work we have all been doing in the last year or two.

Sarah - I’m looking forward to updating myself with the latest thinking and especially developments relating to New Zealand respiratory health.

Hopefully the conference will be in-person and I can also network with colleagues!

Noelene - I always enjoy learning about the new updates in respiratory health and learning about what’s going on around the country. Connecting with others in this field is also a highlight.

The world of respiratory health is a fast-moving one – what topics are you most looking forward to hearing more about?

Amy – Respiratory health is more important and pertinent than ever with the events of COVID-19, which are likely to disproportionately affect those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – more than those without these conditions. I am particularly looking forward to hearing about the updates in management in asthma and in COPD, and how COVID-19 may affect the management of these conditions, including hearing about innovative ways that we can adopt to help patients self-manage their health in these times.

Sarah – Any and all New Zealand specific topics which influence health of Kiwis are of interest. It’s so important we consider influences, trends and management and are responsive to our unique population.

Noelene – I will personally enjoy listening to the updates on the Asthma and COPD guidelines and think about how we can teach them in Primary Health. After attending the European Respiratory Services Congress in Spain last year I’ve realised just how amazing New Zealanders are in the world of respiratory health.

Sarah – Sedentary lifestyles are hazardous to all aspects of your health. We have become a seated society with multiple barriers to moving. However … ‘just move’ … any and all activity counts!

Noelene – How by being open to using different models of health can impact dramatically on a person’s wellbeing. It’s definitely time for change. Don’t be afraid to approach me and ask questions, I’m here to share!

For more information or to register visit NZRC2020.com

Virtual Option for NZRC! Due to the ongoing situation with COVID-19, we can now confirm that NZRC will form a virtual conference if an in-person event is unable to go ahead due to COVID-19 event restrictions.

If a virtual conference were to eventuate, all registered attendees will be given the opportunity to transfer their registration to the virtual conference or be offered a full refund. Rest assured, whether you attend the in-person or virtual conference, you will still be able to access all the sessions outlined in the NZRC programme, and gain all CME credits and CPD points on offer.

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GPs can claim 10 CME RNZCGP credits Nurses can claim 10 professional development hours Physiotherapists can claim 10 professional development hours Pharmacists can claim 10 Group 1 ENHANCE points

Earlybird rates have also been extended indefinitely, with a full conference pass now only $420.

We are pleased to offer a further reduced rate for a full conference pass to all regional societies wishing to attend. For more information on this, or to register as an exhibitor please contact: holly@limeandsoda.co.nz

Better Breathing 5

Introducing Friends of the Foundation Businesses come on board to support better breathing

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mproving the health and quality of life for New Zealanders is at the heart of everything we do, so earlier last month, the Foundation was pleased to launch our new sponsorship programme, Friends of the Foundation.

The programme will form partnerships with like-minded businesses who want to do their bit to help improve the respiratory health of all New Zealanders.

In return for their financial support, organisations will receive recognition for their contribution in helping improve the lives of the 1 in 7 Kiwis who live with asthma, and the 700,000+ Kiwis who live with respiratory disease in New Zealand.

The Friends of the Foundation programme focuses on supporting Foundation initiatives which address the following three key areas: Education and raising awareness – Prevention, education, management of asthma, and knowledge of what to do in an asthma emergency.

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Supporting vulnerable communities – Providing resources and support to identified communities with increased rates of respiratory illness. Raising awareness of the link between unhealthy living conditions and rates of respiratory illness in New Zealand.

Leading best practice – Providing research and resources to support healthcare professionals to deliver care for Kiwis with respiratory illness. We also ensure that this is of a gold standard through our health professional education programmes and events.

The need for these initiatives is wide-spread across our communities.

Forming mutually beneficial relationships with businesses will ensure that we can continue our work in these areas, and most importantly, reach those who need the most support.

Every great relationship starts with a conversation. If your business is interested in becoming a Friend, feel free to reach out and send an email to comms@arfnz.org.nz.

Above: The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation Team celebrated the launch of the Friends of the Foundation sponsorship programme with cupcakes!

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Build a Healthy Home with eHaus Our first Gold Sponsor and Friend of the Foundation

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iving in a dry and warm home is good for everyone, but for people with respiratory conditions, it is even more important.

eHaus, builds homes that help people breathe easier through clever TM design, first-rate air systems, and a unique building approach called PassivHaus. The result is a home free of mould, pollen and other common respiratory triggers.

eHaus sets the bar for energy efficiency. No matter what’s happening outside, an eHaus consumes between 70-90 per cent less heating energy than conventional houses. Condensation has no chance to form, thanks to a year-round temperature of 20-25 degrees in each room of the house. This means mould will never develop - keeping you safe from allergens, irritants, and toxic substances.

eHaus was established in 2010 by Jon Iliffe and Baden and Glenda Brown who were disillusioned with constructing run-of-the-mill houses.

Master Builder Baden and Mechanical Engineer Jon went searching for a better way to build homes for Kiwis and discovered Passive House, an international standard for energy efficiency, and homes that were warmer, drier and more comfortable.

eHaus are the first Gold Sponsors of the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation’s Friends of the Foundation Programme, and share the Foundation’s vision that all homes should be healthy, comfortable, and kind to the environment. If you have breathing problems, have a chat with eHaus about their better breathing homes and how they redefine the way you live.

They hit the ground running and the team hasn’t looked back since. eHaus now leads the way in Passive House design and construction in New Zealand. Their team of handpicked designers and qualified licensed builders deliver warm, comfortable and healthy homes to families across 21 regions in New Zealand.

To find out more about Passive Houses, or to learn more about eHaus builds, visit, ehaus.co.nz.

Suffering from asthma since he was a child, Baden knows the huge impact a well-ventilated home has on someone with respiratory problems. “In an eHaus you don’t have to worry about the air you’re inhaling,” says Baden.

“The mechanical heat recovery system is one step ahead - it filters the air you breathe 24/7. 98% of pollutants and irritants are removed from the house, reducing mould, pollen, dust mites, toxins and smoke.” eHaus design and construct homes that create a healthy living environment. The houses are built with a sustainable footprint and give clients choices of toxin-free materials contributing to the health of the whole family.

An eHaus Euro - Certified Passive House Classic built in Te Miro, Waikato

Better Breathing 7

Understanding

Legionnaires’ Disease W

e often hear about Legionnaires’ disease during summertime and it is typically associated with gardening, compost and potting mix. But what exactly is Legionnaires’ disease, and what can we do to protect ourselves from it? We sat down with Professor Murdoch, Dean of the University of Otago in Christchurch, who recently led a study on the disease in New Zealand.

What is Legionnaires’ disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by legionella bacteria. Several Legionella species are known to cause Legionnaires’ disease. Globally, Legionella pneumophila is reported to be the predominant cause of Legionnaires’ disease, but Legionella longbeachae is the most common cause in New Zealand.

You led a study about Legionnaires’ disease that was published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases – what were the main findings from this study?

This was the world’s first nationwide surveillance study of Legionnaires’ disease and revealed that New Zealand has the highest reported incidence of this disease globally. We don’t necessarily believe that we have more Legionnaires’ disease than any other country, and the study findings probably reflect the fact that we are more rigorous about testing and, consequently, are better at identifying cases of Legionnaires’ disease. The study also showed that the incidence was high in some regions that had historically detected few cases because testing had not been widespread.

Spring is a time when people are getting out in the garden – at this time of year, what are the main risks in our home environments?

Legionella longbeachae is the most common cause of Legionnaires’ disease in New Zealand. Unlike other Legionella species, L. longbeachae is found in soil and compost. So, exposure to compostrelated material is a major risk factor for Legionnaires’ disease. As most gardening activities occur in spring and summer, we see most cases of Legionnaires’ disease at this time of year.

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How can we reduce the risk of being exposed to Legionella bacteria?

The standard advice when working in the garden is to wear gloves when handling soil, compost, mulch, or potting mix; wash hands well after handling garden soil, compost, mulch, or potting mix, even if gloves have been worn; avoid opening bags of compost in enclosed areas; and dampen potting mixes and other organic material before use to reduce dust.

What are the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease and how is it treated?

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include a ‘flu-like’ illness with a rapid onset fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, loss of appetite, breathlessness and chest pain and a dry cough leading to pneumonia.

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea sometimes occur and mental confusion and disorientation may develop. Legionnaires’ disease is treated with antibiotics.

Are some people at a higher risk of developing the disease?

Although people of all ages can get Legionnaires’ disease, those over 50 years of age, smokers, gardeners and people with a compromised immune system are at a higher risk.

How have the results from the study informed practice and policy in New Zealand?

The study highlighted Legionnaires’ disease as a nationwide and relatively common problem in the country. It also demonstrated the importance of diagnostic testing. The study itself has influenced guidelines for the management of pneumonia across many district health boards.

About Professor David Murdoch Professor David Murdoch is Dean of the University of Otago, Christchurch. He is the co-leader of The Infection Group, the co-director of One Health Aotearoa, a Senior Associate in the Department of International Health at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, and a clinical microbiologist at Canterbury Health Laboratories.

Allergy tips for Spring S

pring has officially sprung and with it, people with asthma and allergies are exposed to a whole new range of triggers. We’ve put together some top tips to keep your asthma and allergies at bay this spring.

Prepare for pollen Pollen is a very fine powder produced by trees, flowers, grasses, and weeds to fertilise other plants of the same species. During the months of September to February, pollen is out in force – this happens to be the time when we spend the most time outside enjoying the warmer weather.

Pollen is difficult to avoid; however, you can avoid going outside when pollen counts in the air are high,including in the morning, or on windy days. Also, consider getting someone else to mow your lawns or do your gardening!

Stand back from the BBQ and outdoor fires

Use air conditioning If possible, use air conditioning during the springtime as it restricts the amount of unfiltered air traveling into our living spaces. Air conditioning helps re-circulate and filter the air, which reduces the number of irritants. A central air conditioning unit with a HEPA filter attachment is best, as air is forced through a fine mesh trapping triggers such as pollen, dust mites, smoke and pet dander.

Wash and dry your bedding and clothes indoors Wash your bedding and clothes in hot, soapy water to remove any pollen. Do not dry bedding and clothes outside, as pollen will cling to the fabric – if possible, use the dryer instead.

Once clean, protect your bedding with dust-mite-proof covers on your pillows, comforters, mattresses, and box springs.

Shower at night

Smoke is a common asthma trigger so try and avoid standing next to the BBQ or outdoor fires as the party season kicks off. Pollution particles from smoke are small enough to get right into your lungs and can quickly irritate airways and trigger asthma symptoms.

Throughout the day your body, hair and clothes accumulate germs, dust and pollen that can trigger asthma and allergies. Get into the habit of having a hot shower before bedtime during the pollen season.

A hot shower will also bring you relief if you are suffering from a stuffy, blocked nose.

Spring clean with allergy sensitive products

Declutter your bedroom

Cleaning products that contain strong chemicals or fragrances can trigger allergic or asthmatic reactions. Other products such as sunscreens and insect repellent can have a similar affect – these start to be used more in spring and summer as the weather warms up.

When shopping, look out for allergy-friendly and fragrance-free cleaning products – these products are safer for those with allergies, asthma, or a chemical sensitivity.

Having a lot of knickknacks means having a lot of dust! Keep things simple in the bedroom and avoid excess clutter on shelves and window sills.

Keep medication on hand

Follow your Asthma Management Plan

Using your inhalers or other medications is one of the most important things you can do. You can limit your exposure to allergens and triggers, but you should always have your medication on hand, in case of an emergency.

As the seasons change, make sure that you, and your close friends and family, are aware of your symptoms and your action plan in the event of an asthma or allergy flare-up or emergency. If you don’t have an Asthma Action Plan, speak to your doctor and visit asthmafoundation. org.nz/resources to view resources for both adults and children.

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Move books, magazines, and decorative items to the living areas, and try and keep the space under your bed free from clutter. This will help reduce the dust in your bedroom and help keep the air clean.

Do I need to wear a mask?

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e’ve all been through so much this year as we’ve all learned to adapt to having the COVID-19 pandemic on New Zealand’s doorstep.

Using a mask or face covering is something else that many of us are getting used to – but for people with severe respiratory disease wearing a mask can be difficult.

From Sunday 30 August 2020 face coverings were made mandatory on all public transport in COVID-19 Alert Levels 2 and above. It’s also recommended that masks or face coverings are worn in any situation where it is not possible to practice physical distancing. There are exceptions though, for example, they do not need to be worn by people with a disability or physical or mental health condition which makes it difficult to wear a face covering.

What type of face covering should I wear?

There are different face masks and coverings available: • Medical (NIOSH approved N95 grade or surgical masks).

• Non-medical-grade face masks.

• Other face coverings such as a bandana or a scarf can also be used if you do not have a mask.

N95 Grade Respirator An N95 respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. N95 masks should capture at least 95% of 0.3 micron particles and should closely fit around the nose and mouth.

People with respiratory conditions most at risk from severe health impacts from COVID-19 are those with uncontrolled or pre-existing respiratory conditions. This includes chronic lung disease, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema, and people who have severe asthma which needs multiple medications and medical care.

For these people, higher quality masks are recommended if leaving your home. For people who are at high risk, staying at home as much as possible is still the best way to protect yourself.

• For people with very mild or well-controlled asthma, wearing a face mask should not be an issue.

• For those who have trouble breathing, severe or poorly controlled asthma with frequent flare-ups, or for those with COPD who are coughing and experiencing significant breathlessness, then it is possible that wearing a face mask could cause discomfort or make it harder to breathe.

For those who find wearing a face covering difficult, consider: • Only wearing a mask for short periods of time • Avoiding travel on public transport, or avoiding crowded situations • Using a face mask or face covering that is made of moisture-wicking and breathable fabric (e.g. 100% cotton) – as this may make the mask more comfortable to wear.

If you are in doubt as to which face covering to use, check with a health professional about which is most suitable for your condition. For more information on how to make a face covering, and how to wear one safely visit covid19.govt.nz

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Non-medical grade/ Disposable Mask A non-medical grade mask is a lightweight, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment.

Home made Face Covering A cloth mask is intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes. Masks can be made from common materials, such as sheets made of tightly woven cotton.

Instructions can be found online including directions for no-sew masks made from bandannas and T-shirts.

For more information on the use of face masks or face coverings, visit the New Zealand COVID-19 website

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Warming up Kiwi homes

any New Zealander’s will have just gone through a winter in a cold, damp home. Our houses are traditionally poorly heated and un-insulated – living in these environments can worsen symptoms for those living with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Thankfully, for many Kiwis help is now available through the Warmer Kiwi Homes grant.

“I had some health problems during lockdown and ended up having to isolate because of the risk of COVID-19. Having a warm home and lower heating bills was very important because I have asthma.”

Ali’itasi tells friends and family about Warmer Kiwi Homes and advises them to take up the grants and says that getting the heat pump installed was the best decision.

A recent recipient of the grant, Ali’itasi Stewart who lives in Christchurch (pictured above), had a new heat pump installed earlier this year, with the grant covering 90% of the heat pump and installation.

“This is especially important for Pasifika families because they often have older people and children living in the home. It’s just common sense that you need to keep the elderly and children warm.”

Ali’itasi tells her story and how easy it was to get the grant and get the help she needed to warm up her home…

She was grateful that EnergySmart explained the grants and how everything worked in plain English.

Ali’itasi Stewart’s electricity bill has halved since she had a heat pump installed under the Government’s Warmer Kiwi Homes programme.

Her 100-year-old home in Christchurch was very cold in winter and Ali’itasi relied on small portable heaters to survive the chill.

“These things can get confusing and some of these offers can seem too good to be true but the process was really straight forward.”

Things changed when EnergySmart offered a grant for insulation and a heater under the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme.

“They knocked on the door during my brother’s funeral but I arranged to talk to them at a later date – and then decided to go for it. My home was already insulated under a previous Government programme so I was eligible for a heat pump.”

Getting the heat pump installed was very straight forward. She arranged a time for the install and EnergySmart also popped in afterwards to make sure she knew how to operate the heat pump and set the controls.

“This winter has been incredibly cold and I have been running the heat pump for about five hours a day – but my bill has halved since I stopped using the small, portable heaters.

About the Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant Warmer Kiwi Homes grants are available for lower-income homeowners and now cover 90% of the cost of ceiling and under floor insulation, as well as an efficient heater in the main living area.

Grants for heaters are capped at $3,000.

Homeowners may be eligible if they have a Community Services Card or live in a lower-income area.

You can find out if you’re eligible for a grant by taking a very short questionnaire on the Warmer Kiwi Homes website. Visit warmerkiwihomes.govt.nz.

Or if you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can call the team at Warmer Kiwi Homes on freephone 0800 749 782.

Better Breathing 11

How do I use my....

Peak Flow In this new series, we will be highlighting a range of respiratory related devices and explaining best practice on how to use these. This week, we demonstrate how to use a peak flow meter, and why it is important to use one.

What is a peak flow meter?

A peak flow meter is a small device that helps you check how well your asthma is controlled. The levels on the peak flow measure how much air you can breathe out in one fast breath, which then indicates how swell your lungs are functioning.

Why do we use peak flow readings?

Peak flow meters are firstly used to measure your ‘best peak flow’, which is your benchmark reading of how strong your lungs are when you are healthy and without symptoms. This result is also used to formulate your Asthma Action Plan. Once this benchmark reading has been recorded, and you find that you are unable to meet your best peak flow reading, this may indicate that your asthma symptoms are worsening and that you need to step-up your treatment, which will be documented Asthma Action Plan.

How do I find my best peak flow?

To find your personal best peak flow reading, take your peak flow at the same time each day for one week. Your asthma should be under control during this time.

Write down the number you get for each peak flow measurement. The highest peak flow reading you have during this week is your ‘personal best’.

Once you have you personal best reading, ask your healthcare professional to help you fill out an Asthma Action Plan. This plan will inform you when to use your prescribed medicines if your peak flow drops to a certain level, and when you need to call for help. However, it is important to remember that your personal best can change over time. Ask your health professional when you should re-assess for a new personal best.

How do I take a peak flow reading?

1- Move the marker of the peak flow to the bottom of the numbered scale.

2- Stand up straight and take a deep breath. Fill your lungs all the way.

3- Hold your breath while you place the mouthpiece in your mouth, between your teeth. Close your lips around it.

DO NOT put your tongue against or inside the hole.

4- Blow out as hard and fast as you can in a single blow. Your first burst of air is the most important. So blowing for a longer time will not affect your result.

5- Write down the number you get. But, if you coughed or did not perform the steps correctly, do not write down the number. Instead, repeat the steps over again.

6- Move the marker back to the bottom and repeat all these steps two more times. The highest of the three numbers is your peak flow number.

If you have a peak flow symptom diary, record this number, and repeat over the week. Then add these figures up and divide by seven to give you your average peak flow. If you are feeling well over this time and are no experiencing asthma symptoms, this number forms your ‘average’ peak flow for that week.

Did you know that you can have your Asthma Action Plan on you at all times with the My Asthma App? Download free from the App Store or Google 12 Play Bettertoday!

Breathing

Give this figure to your healthcare professional, and together this can be used to create an Asthma Action Plan, which details what steps to take when your peak flow falls below these levels.

Your nose is the body’s first line of defence against germs and allergens.

Breathe easier with

*

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

*These FESS® products are approved by the Sensitive Choice® program, an initiative of the National Asthma Council Australia and the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation New Zealand. Care Pharmaceuticals is a licensed partner and proud sponsor of the Sensitive Choice® program.

Care Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Australia. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.

5-6 November 2020 Te Papa, Wellington

A virtual conference is now confirmed if the in-person meeting cannot go ahead due to COVID-19 event restrictions.

Full CPD points will still be granted.

Register now NZRC2020.com

Find your local Society!

Did you know that ARFNZ is affiliated with many asthma societies across New Zealand who are here to provide you with support, rehabilitation and nursing assistance with your respiratory condition?

Horowhenua Breathe Easy Group iandlmckenzie@xtra.co.nz LEVIN 0279521439 06 3688069

MahiTahi Hauora 28-30 Rust Avenue WHANGAREI 09 438 1015 MahiTahi Hauora 182 Commerce Street KAITAIA 09 408 3142

Asthma & Respiratory Management BOP reception@asthmabop.org.nz www.asthmabop.org.nz 254 Chadwick Road TAURANGA 0800 276 267

Eastern Bay of Plenty & COPD Support Group COPD@drct.co.nz Disabilities Resource Centre 141 King Street WHAKATANE 0800 227 363

Asthma Waikato info@asthmawaikato.org.nz www.asthmawaikato.org.nz 18 Claudelands Road HAMILTON 07-838 0851 Manawatū Breathe Easy sjorgi64@gmail.com Palmerston North 0272420669

Gisborne & East Coast Asthma Society lynlolohea@hotmail.com 14 Kennedy Street GISBORNE 06-868-9970

Nelson Asthma Society asthma.nelson@xtra.co.nz 9 Cambridge Street RICHMOND 03 544 1562

Breathe Hawke’s Bay admin@breathehb.co.nz www.breathehb.co.nz 199 Dickens Street NAPIER 06-835-0018

Asthma Marlborough Inc asthma.marlborough@xtra.co.nz Marlborough Community Health Hub 22 Queen Street BLENHEIM 03-579-1609 Southland Asthma Society southlandasthma@xtra.co.nz Federated Farmers 70 Forth Street INVERCARGILL 03 214 2356

Tu Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust anne@kokiri-hauora.org.nz 7-9 Barnes Street Seaview LOWER HUTT 0800 939 462

CanBreathe office@canbreathe.org.nz www.canbreathe.org.nz 196 Hills Road, Edgeware CHRISTCHURCH 03-386-0278

Asthma Otago otagoasthma@xtra.co.nz Dunedin Community House Cnr Moray Place & Gt King Street DUNEDIN 03-471-6167

North Otago Asthma sec.noasthma@gmail.com 0277535711

About ARFNZ Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ is the national authority for respiratory illness within New Zealand. ARFNZ develops and supports respiratory health best practice through partnering, research, training and education, and continually works towards increasing awareness of respiratory illness within New Zealand.