What are public health officials doing to control the effects of asthma?
• Asthmatics are encouraged to receive an annual flu vaccine because they are at higher risk of developing complications after contracting the influenza virus. • Harford County has implemented its own school based flu shot initiatives. Contact the Harford County Health Department for more information. • Recently passed smoking legislation • Occupational health and safety policies have been created improve air quality in the workplace. What are the goals of school systems to control the effects of asthma? • Increase education and awareness for students, parents and staff • Put policies and procedures in place for managing children with asthma • Keep personal asthma management plans on file at the schools • Make medications available at all times • Train personnel to recognize signs of an asthma attack • Reduce or eliminate exposure to environmental irritants • Use indoor air quality tool provided by the EPA to create a safe school environment for asthmatic students.
