Understanding the September peak
The start of the school year coincides with several risk factors that contribute to the seasonal spike in asthma exacerbations:
· Increased respiratory viral infections, particularly the common cold (rhinovirus), which is known to trigger asthma attacks 1-3
· Lapsed medication routines, often due to reduced adherence over summer.4,5
· Environmental triggers, such as pollen carryover, indoor allergens, and colder air.1-3
· Stress and routine disruption, especially in children adapting to new environments or experiencing anxiety about the new school year.1,2
In England alone in 2023, the total number of emergency hospital admissions for asthma in 5-14 year olds jumped by 348% from August to September.6 Children are three times more likely to require medical help for asthma during the back-to-school period.5
Preparing your patients for the September peak
With the timing of this seasonal spike being so consistent, early intervention is key in managing your patient’s condition most effectively. Forward-planning asthma reviews, particularly in children, can help identify key symptoms, get their condition under control, and help reduce their risk of an asthma attack.4
These appointments also provide an opportunity to update and reinforce asthma action plans, assess current medication regimens, and adjust treatment where needed.1,2,4,5 In addition, they provide the opportunity to review inhaler technique and discuss options for avoiding common triggers.2,5
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