Journal article
Stormy weather: A retrospective analysis of demand for emergency medical services during epidemic thunderstorm asthma
E Andrew, Z Nehme, S Bernard, MJ Abramson, E Newbigin, B Piper, J Dunlop, P Holman, K Smith
BMJ Online | BMJ PUBLISHING GROUP | Published : 2017
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.j5636
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe the demand for emergency medical assistance during the largest outbreak of thunderstorm asthma reported globally, which occurred on 21 November 2016. DESIGN: A time series analysis was conducted of emergency medical service caseload between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2016. Demand during the thunderstorm asthma event was compared to historical trends for the overall population and across specific subgroups. SETTING: Victoria, Australia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number of overall cases attended by emergency medical services, and within patient subgroups. RESULTS: On 21 November 2016, the emergency medical service received calls for 2954 cases, which was 1014 more case..
View full abstract