With the start of a new school year, students typically catch colds and take some time to adjust to a more strenuous lifestyle after the summer break.
This year, the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation New Zealand expects a spike in asthma-related hospitalisations is expected as children flock through school gates again.
They encourage everyone to be aware of the symptoms of an asthma attack and how to respond. Hospitalisations from attacks are at their highest during Week 3 of Term 1.
One-third of all respiratory-related hospital admissions are children and it is estimated that more than 360,000 school days are lost each year due to asthma-related symptoms in children.
Understanding Asthma in the Classroom
Chief executive Letitia Harding says the back-to-school period is always a vulnerable time for the one in eight Kiwi children with asthma.
“The ‘back-to-school effect’ is greater than the ‘winter effect’ when it comes to children’s respiratory disease with the risk of hospitalisation two and a half times higher on the peak day in the third week of term 1 than on the first day of term.
“International studies have shown that various factors are associated with the increase, including a change of environment and exposure to different allergens, changes in emotions such as stress or anxiety, and exposure to more viruses from being around more people.
“To keep children safe through the return-to-school period, parents and caregivers should ensure that their child has an Asthma Action Plan, which is shared with their school and their teacher.”
“Make sure your child is taking their preventer medication as prescribed and bringing their reliever inhaler to school, and check that it’s not empty or out of date.”
Reducing Asthma Triggers in Schools
For most children, going back to school is an exciting time, Harding says. “But unfortunately, for many, this period can lead to severe reactions – putting children at risk.
“That’s why investing in educating children about asthma is a huge focus for us,” she says.
Managing asthma at school starts with following your doctor’s prescribed treatment and creating an asthma action plan tailored to your school activities.
Share this plan with your school nurse, teachers, coaches, and friends so they can support you if needed. Keep your medicine accessible, whether in your backpack or the health office, and take it as directed.
Learn to manage triggers like pollen, stress, or cold weather by communicating with teachers and preparing for activities like sports or gym class.
If a flare-up occurs, use your inhaler immediately and don’t ignore the symptoms—taking action quickly can help you breathe easier.
Improving Air Quality
Improving indoor air quality is essential for creating a safe environment for students, particularly those with asthma.
Proper ventilation systems should be maintained to ensure clean airflow, and air purifiers can be used where possible to further reduce airborne irritants.
Opening windows during favourable weather conditions promotes natural airflow, especially during activities like arts and crafts that may produce fumes or particles.
Humidity control is also vital; using dehumidifiers to maintain levels below 50% can prevent mould growth, while addressing water leaks and quickly drying spills can minimize the risk of mildew.
Regular inspections for mould in bathrooms, kitchens, and storage areas, coupled with immediate remediation if mould is found, help ensure a healthy classroom environment.
Reducing exposure to allergens and irritants further supports asthma management.
Schools should limit classroom pets or choose hypoallergenic options to avoid triggering pet dander allergies, and during high pollen seasons, windows should remain closed or fitted with screens to block pollen.
Establishing allergen-free zones where items like peanuts or strong fragrances are prohibited can also reduce risks.
Strongly scented products such as air fresheners and candles should be avoided, and non-toxic, unscented cleaning supplies should be used instead.
Schools should opt for low-fume markers, paints, and glue for art projects, ensure science laboratories are well-ventilated, and employ non-toxic pest control methods.
Outdoor activities should be carefully planned, with daily air quality monitored to adjust activities when pollution or pollen levels are high.
Shaded areas on playgrounds also provide relief during hot days, as heat can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma is a common illness in New Zealand, affecting one in eight children and one in eight adults. About 96 people die from asthma each year – that’s nearly two people per week. Knowing the symptoms of an asthma attack is paramount.
Symptoms of an asthma attack can vary in severity but often include a worsening, uncontrollable cough that may persist and intensify, especially at night or during physical activity.
Persistent wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, is another common indicator and occurs due to the narrowing of airways.
Shortness of breath is also a key symptom, making it difficult to take in enough air, which can feel alarming and physically exhausting.
A tight or constricted sensation in the chest may accompany these symptoms, making breathing feel laboured or uncomfortable.
These symptoms can escalate quickly, so it’s crucial to recognize them early and take appropriate action, such as using a prescribed reliever inhaler or seeking medical assistance if the symptoms do not improve.