PARENTS and carers of children with asthma are being urged to ensure they have an action plan in place to help prevent attacks.

The plea has been issued by regional health chiefs, who say that across the UK a child is admitted to hospital every 20 minutes because of an asthma attack, most of which are preventable.

West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership says there tends to be an increase in attacks during September, following summer disruption to medication routines.

And it has issued advice for parents and carers.

Guidance includes:

* Have an up-to-date asthma action plan, which outlines steps to take in case of worsening symptoms or an attack

* Make sure your child is taking their asthma prevention medicine regularly as prescribed, to help maintain control over the condition and reduce the risk of flare-ups

* Ensure they always carry their blue reliever inhaler and spacer with them, including to school, so that quick relief is readily available in case of sudden symptoms or emergencies

* Download the app for parents of children with asthma, available on Apple Store and Google Play

* Regularly check that your child is using the correct technique for inhalers

Dr Katherine Hickman, a GP partner and respiratory lead for West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, says: "Even if your child is feeling well and has been running around all summer, it’s vital to keep on top of their asthma medication and ensure they’re taking their preventer inhaler as instructed by their GP or asthma nurse.

"It’s easy to fall out of your usual asthma care routine during the long summer break, but it’s never too early to get back into it.

"Now that we are about to get back into the school routine, parents need to ensure their children are also returning to the routine of taking their medicine to prevent asthma attacks and are following their action plans.

"This includes checking their reliever inhaler isn’t empty or out of date, making sure teachers know they may need an inhaler, and ensuring they always take their reliever inhaler with them.

"Vaccinations also play a role in reducing the risk for youngsters with asthma. Parents and carers are encouraged to ensure their children are vaccinated against flu and Covid-19 when offered. These vaccinations can help prevent respiratory infections that could worsen asthma symptoms."

For further information, visit wypartnership.co.uk and search 'asthma back to school'.