File image. Photo: AFP
Parents and educators are being warned to prepare for children having more asthma attacks as the school year begins.
International studies have shown a change of environment, exposure to different allergens and increased stress or anxiety were all associated with the spike, the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ said in a statement.
Chief executive Letitia Harding said heading back to school was "always a vulnerable time" for Kiwi children who have asthma.
"The 'back-to-school effect' is greater than the 'winter effect' when it comes to children's respiratory disease with hospitalisations from asthma attacks at their highest during weeks 3 and 4 of term 1."
Symptoms of an asthma attack include a worsening cough, persistent wheeze, being short of breath and/or feeling tightness in the chest.
Harding said parents and caregivers should make sure their child's school and teacher has a plan for if an attack occurs.
"Make sure your child is taking their preventer medication as prescribed and bringing their reliever inhaler to school, and check that it's not empty or out of date."
Many children are excited to go back to school - but that excitement could lead to a severe asthma attack and contribute to increased hospitalisations.
"That's why investing in educating children about asthma is a huge focus for us," Harding said.
The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ said one in eight children and one in eight adults in New Zealand have asthma.
About 98 people die from the illness every year.