Schools tackle asthma crisis

By Rebecca Fraser
COMMUNITY awareness of asthma was lifted last week with the launch of National Asthma Week 2005.
With one in six children in Australia having asthma, many Casey schools have become “asthmafriendly”.
One of these is Brentwood Park Primary School in Berwick.
Acting principal Lyn Forsyth said it was important that the school community understood asthma and how to treat it.
“There are a fair number of students at this school who have asthma, and our staff, through professional development, have become well aware of the treatment requirements.
“A lot of people are not aware of how many people die from asthma and just how serious it is,” she said.
Asthma Foundation of Victoria CEO Robin Ould agrees. He said that although asthma was common, public awareness of asthma and ways to treat it remained limited.
“Through education and information we can empower people with the confidence and skills to improve their asthma control, reduce the risks of asthma attack and lead normal, active lives,” he said. Mr Ould said the foundation encouraged the public to contact them and use the programs and resources the foundation had to offer.
The foundation provides advice through its telephone helpline, oneonone consultation with trained asthma advisers, tailored asthma education and emergency asthma management training for the community and health professionals.
To become an asthmafriendly school, all staff must undergo asthma education, records must be kept for each student with asthma, asthma first aid posters must be displayed and medications must be readily available.
Schools must also have a plan for managing asthma during school sporting activities, excursions or camps.
To use the services and programs offered by the Asthma Foundation of Victoria or to make a donation call 03 9326 7088 or toll free 1800 645 130.