What is the September Spike?
Every year, as the school bell rings for a new academic year, Canadian students face an unexpected challenge—an increase in asthma attacks and symptom flare-ups. This phenomenon, known as the “September Spike,” typically occurs during the third week of September. It’s characterized by a noticeable surge in visits to emergency departments and doctors’ offices as children experience asthma flare-ups. For parents of children with asthma, this is a critical time to take extra precautions to ensure their child’s health and well-being.
Why Does the September Spike Happen?
The September Spike is primarily driven by the spread of cold viruses. As students gather in close quarters—whether in classrooms, schoolyards, or buses—these viruses spread rapidly, often triggering asthma symptoms. Another contributing factor is the interruption in regular asthma management routines over the summer months, which can lead to a loss of control over asthma symptoms. Additionally, environmental factors like indoor and outdoor mold and seasonal pollen (such as ragweed) further exacerbate asthma conditions during this time.
How to Keep Your Child’s Asthma Under Control During the September Spike
Managing asthma effectively requires daily vigilance, especially during high-risk periods like the September Spike. Here are essential steps parents can take to protect their children:
- Get an Asthma Action Plan: If your child doesn’t already have a written asthma action plan, it’s crucial to get one from your healthcare provider. This plan will guide you on what steps to take if asthma symptoms start to appear. Download the Lung Health Foundation’s asthma action plan for children here to take to your healthcare provider to complete.
- Ensure Consistent Medication Use: Make sure your child takes their asthma controller medication exactly as prescribed. Signs like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath can indicate that asthma is not under control and may need medical attention.
- Keep a Reliever Inhaler Accessible: Your child should always have quick access to their fast-acting reliever inhaler. This inhaler, usually blue, can quickly alleviate asthma symptoms, providing immediate relief. Using a spacer device with your inhaler will help ensure you are getting the most out of your medication and reduce side effects.
- Teach Good Hygiene Practices: Educate your children on the importance of washing their hands regularly to prevent infections. When a sink isn’t available, hand sanitizer is a good alternative.
- Get the Flu Shot: Every member of your family should receive the flu shot annually. This not only reduces the risk of flu but also helps prevent complications related to asthma.
Is My Child’s School Asthma-Friendly?
Make sure that your child’s school knows about their asthma and what they are doing to treat it. A clear email message to both your child’s homeroom teacher and the school’s principal can ensure smooth communication.
All school boards in Ontario are required to have specific policies and procedures to protect children with asthma under Bill 20, Ryan’s Law. Under Ryan’s Law, schools are obligated to ensure that children with asthma can have quick access to their reliever inhalers. Inquire with your principal about how they’re creating an asthma-safe school environment and what supports are available to you.
The September Spike can be a challenging time for children with asthma, but with proper planning and management, it’s possible to reduce risks and keep your child healthy. By understanding the causes and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your child’s asthma remains under control during this critical period.
What’s the key to beating the ‘September Spike’ before it starts?
Helping children get their symptoms under control before they’re exposed to in-school threats like respiratory viruses.
That’s why your support is so critical at this time of year. We need your help to keep delivering comprehensive asthma programming for free, to anyone who needs it, any time they need it.
Your support today supports family-friendly resources like:
- Asthma in Children, an easy-to-understand guide for parents (the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario’s preferred asthma resource!)
- Asthma Active and Call Me Brave Boy, story books that help young children understand why asthma sometimes makes it hard for them to breathe
- The Pediatric Asthma Action Plan, a tool