MONDAY, July 25, 2011 (HealthDay News) -- As many kids with asthma get ready to head back to school this fall, the American Lung Association urged parents to prepare a detailed action plan to manage their child's condition and help ease their transition back to the classroom.
"While new clothes and backpacks are often thought of as back-to-school necessities, it is even more essential for parents of students with asthma to work with their healthcare providers and the school to develop a comprehensive action plan detailing the various elements of good asthma control in the school environment," Dr. Norman H. Edelman, chief medical officer of the American Lung Association (ALA), said in an ALA news release.
The ALA encouraged parents who have children with asthma to complete the following checklist to keep their kids healthy during the school year.
The ALA also strongly recommended that all children, particularly those with asthma, get a seasonal flu shot every year.
"As part of your back-to-school preparation, make sure your child with asthma gets a flu shot," said Edelman. "Flu epidemics start and spread in schools, and the flu can lead to a serious asthma attack." He noted that getting a flu shot does not trigger an asthma attack.
Asthma affects 7 million children and teenagers in the United States and accounts for more than 14 million missed school days each year, according to the ALA.
More information
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology provides more information on childhood asthma.