It's Asthma Peek Week

Asthma Peek Week -- Why Does Asthma Peak in September?
September is the perfect storm for those with asthma and allergies. Ragweed, the most common fall pollen allergy, peaks in September in the U.S. Mold counts go up as leaves collect outside. Children return to school and are exposed to respiratory illnesses. And flu season is starting. 

With these happening at the same time, you are exposed to a lot of asthma triggers. This can make it hard for you to keep your asthma under control.

How Can You Stay Healthy During September?

The best way to deal with illness or asthma attacks is to prevent them before they begin.

Stick to your Asthma Action Plan. Take your long-term control medicine as prescribed by your health care provider. If you move into the Yellow Zone of your plan, take action early so you can get back in the Green Zone.
Get the flu shot – the yearly vaccine is available now. It takes two weeks to take effect in your body, so now is the time to protect yourself.
Check if it is time for you to get the pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine is not done yearly. It helps prevent pneumonia and other illnesses.
Avoid your asthma triggers. If you are allergic to ragweed or mold, take steps to reduce your exposure to those allergens:
Remove shoes before entering your home.
Keep your windows and doors closed during peak pollen times.
Use a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air filter on your home’s furnace/heater.
Shower and wash your hair before bedtime. Consider using a saline nasal rinse.
Talk with your allergist about possible treatments for your allergies.
Practice steps to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds. Don’t touch your eyes, mouth and nose.
Stay away from people who are sick.

Get plenty of sleep, eat healthy, stay hydrated and eat well. Take action to keep your stress levels down.
Work with your health care provider to make sure your asthma is under control.

Some states have policies in place that protect children with asthma and allergies. These 15 states made our 2019 State Honor Roll™ of Asthma and Allergy Policies for Schools (SHR).

2019 State Honor Roll Report in Advance of Asthma Peak Week

About the State Honor Roll™ of Asthma and Allergy Policies for Schools (SHR)
In the SHR, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) identifies states that have comprehensive laws and policies aimed at keeping children with asthma and allergies healthy at school.

The report shows the 23 core policies that target the needs of children with asthma and allergies in schools. States make our Honor Roll when they meet 18 of 23 policies.

AAFA’s 15 Honor Roll States
Connecticut*
Delaware
District of Columbia*
Illinois
Indiana
Massachusetts
Mississippi
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Rhode Island
Vermont
Washington
West Virginia

*Connecticut and the District of Columbia meet all 23 benchmarks on our Honor Roll.

Schools and the September Asthma Epidemic
Why are these policies important? For many reasons. For one, asthma is the main reason for missed school days.1 It contributes to the annual economic cost of asthma. Asthma costs around $82 billion each year.2 A school’s environment and policies can actually cause asthma symptoms. Aging schools can be home to pests, mold, pollen, pet dander and strong scents such as from cleaning chemicals.

And schools can contribute to the September Asthma Epidemic. September is the highest month for asthma-related hospitalizations, especially in children. The third week of September – Asthma Peak Week – is the worst. Here are some ways schools can put children with asthma and allergies at risk:

Poor school indoor air quality that can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms the child may not have been exposed to over the summer
Higher rates of illness and respiratory infections, such as colds and flu
Smoking and/or vaping on campus
Air pollution from school buses

“Sending kids back to school can be stressful, especially if your child has asthma or allergies,” said Kenneth Mendez, CEO and president of AAFA. “Every year, September brings an epidemic of asthma attacks. School buildings can be full of asthma and allergy triggers. Combined with the start of cold and flu season, these factors are a perfect storm that impact vulnerable students and staff. With proper school policies to promote more asthma and allergy friendly environments, we can prevent allergic reactions and asthma attacks. We hope more states will qualify for AAFA’s State Honor Roll so that all students have the opportunity to learn in a healthy environment.”

Information from: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America