By: Sally Schoessler, MSEd, BSN, RN -- Director of Education, Allergy & Asthma Network
September – the temperatures start to drop, there’s a crispness in the air and the hallways of our schools are once again filled with activity. Children have returned to school with boxes of tissues, new binders and freshly sharpened pencils.

The third week of September has been identified as the peak time for asthma flares among children and youth. Hospitalizations and visits to the emergency room due to asthma tend to spike during this time.
So what’s so special about September and asthma?
In summer, most families are more relaxed about their Asthma Action Plans and asthma controller medications, but when school restarts, there is renewed stress around family schedules and expectations for the new school year - not to mention the pressure of academics, sports and social aspects of school that can include bullying. The student enters a new classroom (or classrooms) with different children in a relatively small space, increasing the risk for infections.
Our environment changes with the fall season. Outside, the weather gets chillier and ragweed and mold pollens return. Inside, we’re in closer quarters with others and we tend to keep the windows and doors closed as the weather gets cooler and cooler.
It’s important for the school’s healthcare team – led by the school nurse – to come together to promote asthma management all year long, but especially in September. With the student at the center of care, the parents and family, the medical home and the school team can be strategic in minimizing asthma flares. First and foremost, talk with your student to see how they are feeling and if they know how to access their asthma medications as needed during the school day and after-school activities.

As students settle into a new school routine, encourage healthy habits to get the school year off to a great start!
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