Asthma - swine flu warning

With the current swine flu pandemic, it is especially important that a child's asthma is well controlled before returning to school, according to the Asthma Society of Ireland.

The Society says that although people with asthma are no more likely to catch swine flu than anyone else, if they do catch a respiratory infection like swine flu it could add to any breathing difficulties they already have due to asthma.

The Asthma Society, in a publicity campaign with Manchester United footballer John O'Shea, is urging parents of children with asthma to visit their GP to ensure their child's condition is controlled before returning to school next week.

Children's asthma can worsen as the school term begins due to exposure to colds and viruses, excitement or stress and managing their own medication for the first time.

Around 470,000 people in Ireland have asthma and children with the condition will lose an average of 10 days from school each year, according to the Asthma Society.

John O'Shea, who has had asthma since childhood, said going back to school can trigger asthma symptoms and this is not the best way to start the academic year, especially if you play sport.

"It is important for parents to bring their child to the GP to ensure their asthma is controlled before returning to active school life."

The Asthma Society says good hygiene is the first line of defence against any type of cold or flu, so you should make sure your child washes his or her hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.

See also out Swine Flu watch on our home page.

View irishhealth.com's Asthma Clinic here

Sample asthma management guidelines for schools, and a sample personal asthma action plan,
can be downloaded here

[Posted: Wed 26/08/2009]