Did you know your state allows students to self-carry a quick-relief asthma inhaler while at school? Every state has a policy that allows students in public schools to self-carry, although each has its own procedures. This applies to every state in the U.S.

Now is the time of year to get your school forms signed by your child's doctor. These forms include your child's asthma action plan and medication authorization form.

Asthma is the leading cause of school absences due to a chronic illness. Kids with asthma miss about 10.5 million school days each year.

Some states are beginning to go "above and beyond" for school asthma care. They may require the stocking of quick-relief medicine (albuterol), nebulizers and/or spacers for treatment of asthma flare-ups.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America discusses these topics in our Annual State Honor Roll of Asthma and Allergy Policies for Schools. The report describes states with the best public policies for people with asthma, food allergies and related allergic diseases in U.S. public schools.

Without good policies, students are at risk. Two separate school districts in Texas disciplined students in asthma-related incidents.

Check out our State Honor Roll report to see how well your state protecting students with asthma and allergies! 

Originally published September 2016. Updated August 2017, August 2019