Keeping Classrooms Safe for Kids With Asthma, Allergies

Asthma is the leading chronic disease in children. There are currently about 5.1 million children with asthma under the age of 18. Black children are also three times as likely to have asthma compared to white children, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Parents of kids with asthma and allergies should prepare a plan to keep them safe as schools reopen, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) says.

Along with guarding against COVID-19, it's important to protect against cold, flu and other viruses that pose a risk to children with asthma. That includes wearing masks, washing hands and using hand sanitizer whenever possible.

"We don't know what this fall and winter will bring, but if COVID-19 cases are again on the rise, it's important to keep everyone safe from the flu virus and out of the hospital," ACAAI President Dr. Luz Fonacier says.

Flu shots are crucial -- along with the COVID-19 vaccine for kids who are old enough. (The Pfizer vaccine is approved for those 12 and older.)

While flu numbers were down last year because folks stayed home, Fonacier says a flu shot this year can keep kids from getting sick with something that can be prevented.

Asthma and classrooms

It's also important for kids with asthma and allergies to avoid triggers. For example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) given off by new carpeting can cause wheezing and sneezing.

Parents should consider: Is there new carpeting in school hallways? Are there open windows where pollen can drift into the classroom? Could a class pet be causing allergies? Is there mold in the bathrooms? It's important for parents to discuss potential triggers with school officials to help control their child's symptoms, Fonacier adds.

Work with an allergist to make sure your child's medications are appropriate for their

height and weight, their asthma action plan is up to date and that their symptoms are under control, the ACAAI recommends. Ideally, this should be done before school begins.

Children with asthma under the care of an allergist have a 77 percent reduction in lost time from school, according to the ACAAI.

If your child has food allergies, work with your allergist and school staff to create an action plan that lists the foods your child is allergic to, what treatment is required, as well as emergency contact information, the ACAAI urges.

Asthma and classrooms: Strategies

The CDC also recommends these strategies to help your child with asthma in the classrooms:

Asthma education for all. If possible, make sure school staff know the basics about asthma. This includes how to respond to an asthma emergency.
Asthma Action Plan. You should also discuss your child's Asthma Action Plan with teachers, the school nurse, and other key staff members. In it, you should cover issues such as asthma triggers and medicines, peak-flow, and watching symptoms. It should also explain what to do in case of an emergency (when to call parents, when to call a provider, and when to call 911). You should give a written copy of this plan to the school and the school nurse and be sure your child’s teachers and other relevant staff members understand it. It is also important that staff members know how to give pain relief medicines and where it is stored.
Healthy air quality. Ask your child's school to ban tobacco use on school property. Having a good pest control method can also help control cockroaches and other allergy-causing pests. Make sure your child's school is taking steps to reduce dust and debris in the air during any construction or remodeling. If you live in an area where the air quality varies, consider asking the school to let your child play inside on bad air days.
Safe physical activities. Make sure your child's school has physical activities that are safe and suitable for their condition. You should also make sure your child gets any medicines he or she might need before or during exercise.
Cooperation. The CDC finds that asthma-friendly schools work best when they have strong community support. This takes communication from both the school and the parents. The school should let you know what steps they are taking to help reduce exposing your child to triggers. On your side, you should remember to update the school and the school nurse about any changes in your child’s Asthma Action Plan and give them an updated copy of the plan.
Trigger avoidance. The school and key staff members should work with you and your child to help you find and reduce asthma triggers in the school.