The time of the year when hospitalizations or trips to the emergency department are most likely to increase for asthmatic children is in the late summer and early fall — or around when school begins for most children.

In a study at a New York medical center, pediatric asthma emergency department visits jumped after Labor Day — especially for children who were in elementary school. The rates for visiting the emergency department also were up for preschool students and older students, but the rates for adult asthma patients remained steady.

To avoid colds and flu when returning back to school, experts recommend old-fashioned hand washing and hand sanitizing to keep germs and viruses off hands.

Returning to school also means exposure for children to indoor air pollutants — such as dust, molds, and aerosols — in the schools that can trigger asthma symptoms among children as well. (Also see Chapter 11.) Parents should ensure that their child's asthma management plan is updated, and medications are refilled. If necessary, a visit with your primary care provider should be scheduled prior to the start of school.

This should serve as a reminder to give teachers, nurses, and coaches your child's updated asthma action plan — plus any medications to the school nurse or designated staff member — to get her off to a good start in the new school year while avoiding trips to the hospital.