Back-to-school asthma alert

As the new school year gets underway, the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ is advising parents and educators to be prepared for return-to-school asthma are-ups.

“Return-to-school asthma are-ups are well-documented both in New Zealand and overseas,” says the foundation’s scienti c advisory board member, respiratory paediatrician Dr David McNamara.

Flare-up peaks

“Research shows asthma hospitalisations for Kiwi kids peak in the early weeks of each term, with the greatest peak occurring in weeks three and four of Term 1. Surprisingly, the rate of hospitalisations at this time of year is greater than winter months for children under 14 years,” says David. International studies identify several possible factors for this increased risk, including exposure to di erent allergens and new viruses in school environments, plus changes in emotions like stress and anxiety that can be triggers for asthma.

David encourages parents to take action now to reduce the risk of return-to-school asthma.

“Now is the time to check that you have the inhalers you need, spacers and an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan.