Asthma Australia is urging parents to update their child’s Asthma Action Plan.
Just like packing a school hat, this simple step helps ensure your child’s asthma is well-managed and helps teachers, coaches, and caregivers know exactly what to do if a flare-up occurs.
“Sending your child back to school without an updated written Asthma Action Plan is just like sending them to play in the sun without a hat on,” Asthma Australia CEO Kate Miranda said.
“They are exposed.
“It’s one of those small but important steps to keep them protected—whether it’s from the sun’s rays or unexpected asthma flare-ups.”
Ms Miranda said the asthma burden on kids was significant. Four in 10 miss school each year due to the chronic disease.
Asthma affects about 386,000 children in Australia—about two per classroom.
Given the time children spend at school, managing asthma effectively is critical.
Asthma Action Plans help manage asthma and prevent exacerbations, yet only two thirds of children have one.
“Book an appointment with your child’s doctor to update their Asthma Action Plan today,” she said.
An Asthma Action Plan is a personalised guide created by your doctor to manage your child’s asthma.
It’s like an instruction manual for asthma that outlines how to handle flare-ups, monitor symptoms, and provide appropriate treatment.
Regardless of how mild your child’s asthma might seem, everyone with asthma should have one.
“The goal of the Asthma Action Plan is to prevent and control asthma symptoms,” Ms Miranda said.
“Even if you know what to do when your child’s asthma flares up, it’s invaluable to have clear, written instructions from your doctor, especially in an emergency situation.”
The plan covers four key areas: instructions for everyday asthma management; steps to take if symptoms worsen; emergency actions if the flare-up becomes serious; and instructions for life-threatening asthma attacks.
Visit asthma.org.au to download an Asthma Action Plan template and access additional resources for managing asthma.
