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Health and Wellness
The well-documented "September Asthma Epidemic" marks a notable spike in asthma cases, particularly during the third week of the month, known as "Asthma Peak Week." According to the Allergy & Asthma Network, 25% of all childhood asthma attacks requiring hospitalization occur during September, with numbers for asthma flares, hospitalizations, and ER visits typically peaking 2-3 weeks after Labor Day.
Why September? It's the perfect respiratory storm:
Back-to-school germs: Kids share more than just summer stories
Allergen ambush: Fall pollens and molds make their grand entrance
Trigger torrent: Indoor irritants and air pollutants invade inhalations
Routine rebellion: Summer breaks often disrupt medication schedules
Weather whiplash: Fluctuating temperatures affect sensitive airways
Amidst the back-to-school bedlam that this time of year brings, don't forget these important measures to help your school nurse keep students breathing easy:
Asthma Action Plans: Ensure that all students with asthma have current and comprehensive action plans on file with school nurse.
Medication Management: Ensure your student's rescue inhaler is at school and the school nurse is aware of it's location.
Infection Prevention: Promote hand washing, respiratory hygiene, and staying up-to-date on recommended vaccines (respiratory viruses, including the flu, are one of the primary causes of asthma attacks in the fall).
District Lead Nurse
Melinda Southerly
melinda.southerly@pgitgers.org
Junior High Nurse
Kellye Lamb
kellye.lamb@pgtigers.org
Middle School Nurse
Kristin Jeremiah
kristin.jeremiah@pgtigers.org
Pre-K School Nurse
Amber Squire
amber.squire@pgtigers.org
When should I seek medical attention for my child?
Fever over 101 with a sore throat
Fever with earache/drainage from ear
Any rash accompanied by a fever
Any illness that does not get better in 2-3 days
If your child misses school frequently or leaves school early for a specific problem
Toothache
Crusted eyes or eyes that are red and swollen and also have drainage
When should my child stay home from school?
Fever of 100.4 or higher
A fever accompanied by any one of the following: cough, runny nose, or sore throat (flu like symptoms)
Rash with a fever or rash of unknown origin. This needs to be checked by your child's doctor.
Strep throat (if awaiting culture results or less than 24 hours of antibiotic treatment)
Suspected pink eye
Vomiting and/or diarrhea
Asthma symptoms not responding to medication
If it is recommended by a physician that your child remain at home
Pain in children, especially young children, should be taken seriously. Earaches, toothaches, and persistent headaches should be evaluated by a doctor.
Vaccination Information
Follow the link for vaccination information from AR Children's hospital.