The first few weeks of the school term are a danger period for asthma, say experts who are highlighting the need for an up-to-date written action plan.
There's always a February spike in cases, says Asthma Council Australia CEO Kristine Whorlow.
The causes include exposure to cold and flu bugs in the classroom, as well as stress, a change of environment and allergens.
A change in how a child's asthma is managed over the holidays is also a risk.
Ms Whorlow urged parents to ensure their children had an up-to-date written action plan prepared by a doctor.
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A copy should be given to the school or anyone else who regularly takes care of the child.
It is essential that children resume their asthma routine before going back to school, she says.
They must take prescribed preventer medications, have a reliever puffer and spacer in their school bag.
Parents should check that their children know how to ask for help if they have symptoms.
"Taking these preventative measures before and during the first few weeks of school can go a long way to helping keep children out of hospital," Ms Whorlow says.
"Parents need to ensure their child is taking their medications regularly and properly to get the best effect," says pediatric physician Professor Adam Jaffe.
He says the child's asthma action plan can be uploaded onto the free Asthma Buddy app, which gives parents access to their asthma action plan wherever they are.
Prof Jaffe says it's important for parents to ensure medication is not out of date.
Parents should also identify their child's asthma triggers, like dust mites or cigarette smoke, and avoid exposure to them, he says.
