Every September, right after children return to school, hospitals and clinics across Canada see a sharp increase in asthma attacks and emergency room visits. This surge is often called the “September Spike” or the “September Asthma Peak.”
Why Does the September Spike Happen?
Several overlapping factors fuel this seasonal asthma flare-up:
Contributing Factor |
How It Increases Asthma Risk |
|---|---|
| Viral Infections | Close contact in classrooms spreads viruses like colds, flu, RSV, and rhinovirus—up to 85% of asthma flares are triggered by viral infections. Learn more about how respiratory viruses affect lung health. |
| Seasonal Allergens | Late summer and early fall mean ragweed pollen, mold, and dust mites are at their highest levels. See our guide to air quality and allergies in New Brunswick. (Join the Air Quality Monitoring Network Here). |
| Reduced Medication Adherence | Many families ease up on asthma routines during summer. By September, airways may already be inflamed. Download your Asthma Action Plan to stay on track. |
| Environmental & Indoor Triggers | Poor air quality inside schools and added stress can worsen symptoms. Learn how wildfire smoke and radon exposure also threaten lung health. |
| Impact on Adults | Parents and caregivers are exposed to more germs brought home by kids, leading to asthma flare-ups in adults. See our tips for managing asthma at work and home. |
How to Prepare for the September Asthma Spike
Taking proactive steps can make back-to-school season safer for families with asthma:
1. Schedule a Back-to-School Asthma Check-Up
Book an appointment with your healthcare provider to:
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Review asthma control and medications
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Update or create a written Asthma Action Plan
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Check inhaler technique
Download the Asthma Action Plan template here.
2. Stick With Controller Medications Year-Round
Daily preventive (controller) inhalers reduce airway inflammation—even when symptoms seem mild or absent. See our asthma management resources for more tips.
3. Keep a Rescue Inhaler Handy (with a Spacer)
Make sure children carry their quick-relief inhaler at all times. Using a spacer helps deliver the medication effectively. You can request a free or by-donation spacer through NB Lung’s online shop. (When our stock is sold out, please send us an email at info@nblung.ca).
4. Get Vaccinated
The flu shot and, if recommended, a COVID-19 booster can reduce the severity of respiratory infections. Book your vaccine’s and read more on our respiratory viruses page.
5. Reinforce Good Hygiene
Teach proper hand-washing and sanitization to help reduce the spread of viruses.
6. Reduce Allergens at Home
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Use HEPA air purifiers
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Keep windows closed on high pollen days
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Have children shower after outdoor play to wash off pollen
See our Healthy Homes resources for DIY cleaning recipes and tips that protect lungs.
7. Share Your Asthma Plan with Schools
Give teachers and school staff a copy of your child’s Asthma Action Plan and clarify policies about inhaler access. For extra support, see our resources for caregivers.
8. Adults: Protect Your Own Lungs Too
Parents and caregivers with asthma should also:
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Follow their action plan
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Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
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Reduce allergens at home
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Practice good hygiene during busy childcare seasons
Learn more about lung health for all ages. Stay up-to-date on lung-health issues in our province by subscribing to our newsletter.
Stay Safe with NB Lung: Your Trusted Resource
For New Brunswick-specific asthma support, including downloadable Asthma Action Plans, educational materials, and tools like inhaler spacers, visit NB Lung’s Asthma page. You’ll find:
- A written Asthma Action Plan template to help guide your management steps.
- Counselling support and educational resources on asthma and lung health designed for New Brunswickers.
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