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Chest infections

  • Chest infections can trigger your asthma by causing further inflammation in your airways

  • Signs of a chest infection include worsening asthma symptoms, chesty cough, difficulty breathing and high temperatures (often over 38 degrees)

  • It is really important you continue taking your preventer inhaler and your Asthma Action Plan

  • Make an appointment with your GP if fevers are persisting as you may need antibiotics.  

  • If your asthma seems a bit worse, make sure you call your GP today for advice.

  • If you have difficulty in breathing call 999

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Colds and flus

  • Colds and flus are very common triggers of asthma

  • They occur most frequently during winter seasons, especially at the start of winter school terms for school-age children

  • Increased inflammation and mucous contribute to symptoms

  • Ensure you continue your preventer inhalers and follow your Asthma Action plan

  • Monitor your signs for asthma and if concerned make an appointment with your GP for a review

  • Keep well hydrated and take plenty of rest

  • If your asthma symptoms are getting worse follow your Asthma Action Plan

Flu vaccine

All children aged 2 - 17 years should have the free nasal flu spray vaccine every year. This helps reduce the severity of flu in children and young persons with asthma.

The flu vaccine injection is offered to those children under 2 years, or if the nasal flu spray is not suitable, such as those who have a weakened immune system, severe allergic reaction to egg or flu vaccine in the past, on aspirin treatment, or being treated for an asthma exacerbation currently. 

Where?

Your GP surgery if your child is not in primary school. All primary school children are likely to be vaccinated at school. Please check with your GP / school

When?

The best time to be vaccinated is from the beginning of October, but flu vaccines are available throughout winter.

Other Considerations?

The nasal flu vaccine spray contains ingredients which are derived from pig (pork gelatine). Vaccination is a personal choice, however we urge everyone to ensure they and their children are fully vaccinated to prevent serious complications which may be life threatening. 

For more information, view Public Health England information here and Nasal Flu Vaccine | Vaccine Knowledge (ox.ac.uk).

The British Muslim Fatwa Council has issued a statement encouraging vaccination, please read in English or Urdu. 

If you are not sure what is right for you, please have a look at the information links above, and discuss with your GP if you're still not sure.