One in five children in Ireland suffer from asthma and have more to manage than most when going back to school this September. While the school year can be a concern for families with children dealing with asthma, a plan in place goes a long way to avoiding undue worry. To combat the expected September spike in hospitalisations, the Asthma Society of Ireland has made more free appointments available with asthma nurse specialists on its award winning asthma advice line. Nurses will be on hand to offer tailored support and guidance to parents, guardians, teachers and school management on the dangers posed to children by the return to the classroom.
Pheena Kenny, Health Promotion Manager with the ASI said: “Back-to-school time can be an exciting but often stressful, time for many children. A change of environment coupled with exposure to colds and viruses, means that children are exposed to more asthma triggers.”
“Asthma is a controllable condition, and many emergency situations can be avoided by having the right supports in place. Our Advice line is on hand to provide a range of supports. Two key supports that the Asthma Adviceline nurses can provide details on are the Asthma Action Plan and the Asthma Friendly School Award. To find out more free phone the Asthma Adviceline on 1800 44 54 64 Monday to Friday between 9a.m. and 5p.m.”
Asthma affects 1 in 5 children so every classroom will have at least one child with asthma. Education is critical and families need support to help them manage asthma at home and at school.
