Last updated on 19/01/2026

 

Early weeks of school bring higher asthma risk; a written Asthma Action Plan offers a simple step to protect children 

As kids return to school, Asthma Australia is warning parents and carers that asthma flare-ups are more common in the early weeks of term, making it important for every child with asthma to have an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan. 

National data reveals that asthma hospitalisations among children generally peak in February, the first full month after the long summer break. Past research also shows that hospital admissions for asthma in children aged 5–14 years increase sharply after the first day of school, peaking 2–4 weeks into the new term. The risk of hospitalisation is up to three times higher than before school resumes.  

This may be due to several factors. Returning to classrooms increases exposure to respiratory viruses, a common trigger for flare-ups. Exacerbations are also more likely if children have missed doses of their preventer medication over the holidays, leaving asthma less controlled. Environmental triggers such as dust, pollen, and mould at school or on the way to school can further aggravate symptoms, making this period particularly high-risk for exacerbations and hospital visits. 

Asthma remains one of the leading causes of school absenteeism in Australia. Around 42 percent of children aged 0–14 with asthma have missed school due to their condition. Despite this, only two in three Australian children with asthma currently have a written Asthma Action Plan, leaving many without clear instructions when flare-ups occur.  

An Asthma Action Plan outlines how to manage asthma daily; how to recognise early signs of worsening symptoms; steps to take if asthma becomes severe and emergency instructions if a life-threatening flare-up occurs. 

Kate Miranda, CEO of Asthma Australia, said: “Back-to-school weeks are the highest-risk period for children with asthma. A written Asthma Action Plan, completed with a doctor or other qualified health professional and shared with teachers, coaches, and carers, provides clear guidance for both daily asthma management and responding to flare-ups.  

“It’s not okay for children to miss school or for parents and carers to carry the worry of what might happen if their child has an asthma flare-up. Kids should be at school playing, learning, and enjoying their day without fear for their health. A current Asthma Action Plan helps families and schools manage asthma confidently throughout the school day and during high-risk periods.” 

Parents are encouraged to book an asthma review before school starts and to have a comprehensive discussion with their doctor about keeping asthma under control in 2026, ensure medicines are current and used correctly and provide a copy of the plan to the school and any carers. For more information and to download an Asthma Action Plan template, visit Asthma Australia’s website. 

ENDS 

For more information:
Contact Trinity Frederick, 0413 99 22 82 

ABOUT 

Asthma Australia is the nation’s peak body representing nearly 2.8 million Australians living with asthma. Our work is grounded in evidence and informed by the lived experience of people with asthma. Our programs reflect a commitment to outcomes-focused, equity-driven reform, integrating community insight and clinical expertise to strengthen person centred asthma care.