The Federal Health Minister has released a statement advising parents of children with asthma to be prepared for the new school term.

"There is always a spike in asthma cases when kids return to school, particularly after the summer holidays and we want to make sure mums and dads are prepared,” Nicola Roxon said.

“It is important that parents and schools are aware that every February there is a spike in asthma-related hospital admissions among school-aged children."

The Asthma Foundation WA recommends students with asthma visit their doctor to have their asthma action plan reviewed.

Ms Roxon also stressed the importance of continuing medication throughout the holiday period.

“The increase in hospital visits probably occurs because kids tend to pick up cold and flu viruses from each other and also because they haven’t been rigorous with their medication over the break," she said. 

If medication has stopped during this period, it should be restarted as soon as possible.  

If you would like to speak to a trained asthma educator about asthma or our Asthma Friendly Schools programme, please contact us on 9289 3600.