As summer winds down, many parents and students focus on the school year ahead. That usually means buying school supplies and longer pants. But for parents of children with asthma, the start of the school year should also include taking preventative steps to protect their kids from the "September Spike" -- the annual increase in asthma-related emergency room visits that happens when school begins.

Cold viruses -- that are easily spread from person to person - are one of the most common triggers for asthma symptoms. Kids are in close contact with each other in classrooms, schoolyards and buses. This close contact helps germs spread and increases kids' risk of infection.

"Many respirologists refer to the September Spike as the 'perfect storm'," says Carole Madeley, director of Respiratory Health Programs for the Ontario Lung Association. "Cold viruses, combined with the fact that many kids with asthma have changed or interrupted their regular asthma management schedule over the summer months, act as major triggers, resulting in Emergency Departments across the province chock a block with asthma patients."

More than 1.7 million Ontarians have asthma, with about 20 percent being children, which means it's a big problem for many families and hits all schools across the province. Dr. Sharon Dell, a pediatric respirologist at Toronto's SickKids Hospital stresses, "Good asthma control requires daily efforts. Anti-inflammatory medications are often needed every day. Avoiding asthma triggers also demands a continuous effort. However, the benefit of having well controlled asthma and being able to live a full, active life is well worth it."

Through a major public education campaign the Ontario Lung Association helps parents take steps to prevent their children from having an asthma attack. One of the key campaign messages: regular use of controller medication such as anti-inflammatory medications significantly reduces the risk of emergency room treatment for asthma. By ensuring good asthma control, you can protect your child all year round.

The Ontario Lung Association is a respected resource for parents and teachers. Call 1-888-344-LUNG (5864) and speak to a certified respiratory educator or visit www.on.lung.ca

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NOTE: The original release of this article mentioned an incorrect statistic of 2.4 million Ontarians having asthma. The correct statistic is 1.7 million Ontarians. Any corrections to online postings of this article would be greatly appreciated.