Syracuse Parent and CNY Family

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Fighting for air: Preparing kids with asthma for flu season, new scool year
Posted on Fri, August 28th, 2009
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As children with asthma return to school, parents should be aware that cold and flu season is beginning as well. Seasonal influenza poses a special health risk to children with asthma, as these kids often experience more severe symptoms.
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases also reports influenza is linked to a higher number of fatalities in children with asthma than in kids without lung disease.
“Good hygiene is the best and first line of defense against any type of cold or flu,” said Norman H. Edelman, MD, American Lung Association chief medical officer. “This includes frequent hand washing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.”
The Lung Association also strongly recommends that all children, especially those with asthma be immunized against seasonal influenza.
Yet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that, at most, only one-third of children with asthma are vaccinated annually against seasonal influenza.
“Vaccination against seasonal influenza needs to be a higher priority in this country.” said Dr. Edelman. “Influenza is a serious disease with deadly consequences. Parents need to know that the best way to protect their kids against seasonal influenza is to ensure their child is vaccinated each and every year.”
The Lung Association notes that the potential severity of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) this fall remains uncertain at this time. Parents of children with asthma should be on the lookout for guidance from public health officials. Special recommendations, including possible H1N1 vaccination guidelines, may be issued by CDC for children who are at greater risk for complications from influenza. These recommendations and updates can be accessed online by visiting cdc.gov/h1n1flu/.
“If a child has a fever or other flu-like symptoms, they should stay home,” Dr. Edelman cautioned. “Children should not return to school for at least 24 hours after their fever or signs of fever are no longer present.”
For additional information on asthma and children, visit www.lungusa.org or call 1-800-LUNG-USA. About the American Lung Association: Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy.
For more information about the American Lung Association, a Charity Navigator Four Star Charity and holder of the better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit lungusa.org.

Kaitlyn poses for her babysitter who took this image of her playing outside.