# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NHS - Clean Air Animation - English Captions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What Causes Asthma? | The Dr. Binocs Show | Best Learning Videos For Kids | Peekaboo Kidz

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Moving On Asthma Hi there! Welcome to the Moving On Asthma website – a resource for young people living with asthma. Develop those essential self-management skills and learn to access healthcare independently one video at a time. From what is asthma to ordering prescriptions, we’ve got it covered. I…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This video shows you some techniques and positions to help you recover when you’re feeling breathless. This video can also help when you’re feeling anxious.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get help to deal with your feelings about your child’s asthma.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Having a child with asthma or suspected asthma can have a big impact on the whole family. Meeting with other families in a similar situation can be helpful and comforting. Our Parent Carer Support Network is a safe and friendly place to talk to other people who understand.

Our meetings are open to anyone who looks after a child with asthma. This could include parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. You can chat to experienced doctors and nurses and ask any questions you like. You can also learn about the latest information and advice on how to manage your child's asthma.

When your child is diagnosed with asthma, or their asthma gets worse, it can be very scary and overwhelming. It is important to talk about your feelings and experiences with others. You are not alone, and we are here for you.

Online meetings

We hold a free online meeting over Zoom every month for parents and carers of children with asthma. Each meeting has a different topic. Come along and meet our kind and knowledgeable healthcare professionals.
Join our online meetings
Support groups

Learn more about our support groups.

All our support groups are run by volunteers and offer peer to peer support. If this is something you would be interested in becoming involved with, please email us on: supportgroups@asthmaandlung.org.uk

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We offer support and free online events for parents and carers of children with asthma.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to content

Inhalers used for asthma usually contain gas (called propellant) which is needed to carry the medicine into the lungs in a fine spray. This gas can contribute to global warming. You can help reduce the environmental impact of inhalers by taking old inhalers to your local pharmacy to dispose of properly.

How serious is the environmental impact of inhalers?

Most inhalers used in the UK are pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) which contain a propellant gas. This gas helps to carry the medicine from the inhaler into the person's airways in a fine spray. The gases used in pMDIs are hydrofluorocarbons, which contribute to global warming.

The medicine itself does not harm the environment and the propellant gas does not cause any harm to the person using the inhaler.

Why is it important to dispose of inhalers carefully?

Pressurised metered dose inhalers should not be put in the household rubbish or recycling bin, even when they appear empty, as they may still contain the propellant gas which could leak out over time.

Used or out-of-date inhalers should be taken to a pharmacy or returned to the manufacturer to dispose of properly.

They will dispose of inhalers in a way that destroys the propellant without harming the environment.

Ask your local pharmacist if they have an inhaler recycling scheme in place. Many pharmacies have collection schemes for old (empty or out-of-date) or unused inhalers.

Do not stockpile inhalers at home. It is important that you have a spare inhaler, but if you have too many, they may end up going out-of-date before they are used.

Check the inhalers expiry date. Even if your child has not used all the medicine in the inhaler, the reliever inhaler should be replaced with a new one if it has passed the expiry date. This is usually six months after opening it. You can find the expiry date on the bottom of the box, or on the side of the canister.

Store your reliever inhaler at the right temperature as extreme temperature and high altitudes can affect the inhaler. Check the label on the inhaler for storage instructions or speak to a doctor, pharmacist or asthma nurse for advice.

NHS information on inhalers and the environment

NHS England London CYP (children and young people) Pharmacy Asthma Group have produced a new information leaflet concerning the green agenda and inhalers.

This leaflet informs parents and young people about ways to reduce the environmental impact from inhalers, how to know when the inhaler is empty and how to dispose of them correctly.

The leaflet is available to view here:
NHS England London patient information on green inhalers

Contact and NHS helplines

If your child is seriously ill, telephone 999 (UK only) or 112 for emergency help.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Asthma article 2: Disposing of asthma inhalers to reduce their environmental impact

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to content Inhalers used for asthma usually contain gas (called propellant) which is needed to carry the medicine into the lungs in a fine spray. This gas can contribute to global warming. You can help reduce the environmental impact of inhalers by taking old inhalers to your local pharmacy to dispose of properly.

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to this Padlet - it's full of information to help support your child manage their asthma.

Each section is titled so you can easily find what you're looking for.

Scroll across to see all the sections.

Once you have the section you want, scroll down to click on the link that you want to watch or read.

You can download and print resources directly from the padlet.

If you have any problems please contact the Children's Community Asthma Service:

Tel: 0161 529 6638

Email: mft.manchesterccnchronicasthma@nhs.net

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1:5:7 Knowledge - Medication / Preventers / Inhalers

# data[].attributes.body
Video Playlist

# data[].attributes.body
Asthma and Lung Uk

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An asthma trigger is anything that irritates your airways and sets off your asthma symptoms.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Be the change | Clean Air Greater Manchester

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When you’re out and about you can be breathing in dirty air without even knowing it. And you might be adding to the problem by the way you travel.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Making sure your child stays safe with their asthma at school or nursery can feel a bit daunting.

Your child may be going back to school or nursery for a new term, starting school or nursery for the first time or joining a new school or nursery. If your child has asthma, or suspected asthma, you may worry about how to prepare for this.

It's important to make sure the school or nursery knows all about your child's asthma, to make sure that everyone is clear about how to manage your child's asthma well.

Book a meeting with your child's teacher or keyworker

This can be a really useful meeting, where you can talk through important information about your child's asthma. This might not be able to happen in person at the moment - you could ask if a telephone or video call is possible.

You might want to check if other people can be there too, like the school nurse or the headteacher.

If your child is old enough, you might want to bring them along too.

In the meeting, it's a good idea to talk about the following:

Talk staff through your child's asthma action plan and give staff a copy to keep.

Let them know what your child's usual triggers are and explain how asthma affects your child. This includes their symptoms and signs that they need to use their reliever inhaler, like wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and a tight chest.

Make sure the school know how to contact you if your child has any asthma symptoms at school or nursery - for example, if they needed to use their reliever inhaler. It is also important that you let the school know if your child is getting asthma symptoms at home.

Show the teacher or keyworker your child's reliever inhaler and explain how to use it. All staff that have contact with your child should know how to look after your child's asthma. This includes lunchtime supervisors and supply teachers.

Explain that if your child has a spacer, they must always use it, as it helps their inhaler to work better.

Download a school asthma card. A school asthma card includes contact details and essential information about your child's asthma. Fill it in with your child's GP or asthma nurse and take it into your child's school.

Here are a few questions you could ask your child's teacher or keyworker

If my child is displaying asthma symptoms, such as a cough, will they be sent home from school?

How would you like me to let you know about any changes to my child's asthma?

How will you let me know about any asthma symptoms my child is having at school?

What is your medical conditions policy? This covers how they will care for children with conditions like asthma.

What is the school's policy on attendance? This is a chance to talk about any concerns you may have about your child being too unwell to come to school, or if they have to miss school to attend appointments.

What asthma training have staff had at this school?

How will my child be included in, and kept safe during, school trips and sports day?

Don't forget to tell school and nursery staff about our website, WhatsApp chat and Helpline. The more they know about asthma, the more able they'll be to look after your child.

Ask about an Individual Healthcare Plan

Some children with medical conditions like asthma have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP).

This sets out key points about your child's asthma, so the school knows how to support them. This includes their symptoms, medicines and what to do in an emergency.

Not all children with asthma need an IHP. It's a good idea to have one if your child's asthma symptoms often get worse, as this could lead to an asthma attack.

Your child's headteacher has overall responsibility for IHPs, so they're the person to ask if you think your child needs one. As a parent or carer, you can be involved in the drafting of your child's IHP.

If your child does not have an IHP, make sure the school has a school asthma card for your child, and a copy of their asthma action plan.

Manage your child's medicines

Your child may need to use their medicines at school or nursery, especially their reliever inhaler (usually blue).

Make sure your child's inhaler is in date, and kept in the original box with the prescription label attached and instructions included. It's also a good to label your child's inhaler with their name and class.

Make sure your child knows where their inhaler is kept and can access it easily - it shouldn't be locked away.

If your child needs to take any extra medicines during school or nursery hours, make sure you've given written permission. This is something that can be recorded on your child's school asthma card.

If your child's school keeps spare emergency reliever inhalers, find out where they're kept. Your child may need to use one if they can't use their own inhaler.

Under normal circumstances, the metered dose inhaler can be cleaned. However, due to COVID-19, it may be safer to throw away the inhaler after it is used, rather than washing it. The spacer will always be thrown away, as it can't be used by another child.

If your child's school does not keep spare emergency reliever inhalers, tell them about the new national guidance. Find out more about the campaign for inhalers in school, and the new law passed in 2014 to allow emergency inhalers to be kept in school.

Plan for asthma attacks

Staff that look after your child need to know the signs of an asthma attack and when to call 999.

The school should have a copy of your child's asthma action plan which should list their asthma attack symptoms and step-by-step instructions on what to do.

Help staff understand that your child shouldn't be left alone without an adult until they're feeling better.

Your child should not be sent to get their own inhaler - someone needs to bring it to them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There is a dramatic rise in the number of children rushed to hospital due to their asthma in the autumn term - make sure your child is ready to go back to school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The overall aim of the service is to provide access to asthma-trained nurse specialists, delivering high-quality care management and information regarding asthma, in line with current BTS (2019) and NICE asthma standards (2021). Our Nurse Specialists will work in partnership with families in deciding treatment pathways and developing an agreed self-care package.

We are a non-emergency service that provides care to children, young people, and families with asthma. We see children and young people aged between 3-16 years, with respiratory conditions such as asthma, cough, wheezing and/or shortness of breath. We can see children over the age of 16 years with Special Needs and attending a special needs school - up to the age of 18 years.

The child/young person must have a Manchester address.

The service offers nurse-led clinics within community settings citywide.

The aim of these clinics is to work in partnership with the child, young person, and family to provide education, advice, treatments, and support empowering them to be able to manage their condition. We work in partnership with other health professionals, pre-schools, and schools to further develop links within the local community. We also share care with the respiratory team, consultants and GPs to ensure consistency of your child's care.

Please speak with your GP, School Nurse, or Health Visitor to arrange a referral to the service.

We will see children who have had:

More than 2 A/E attendances or hospital admissions in 12 months

More than 2 courses of oral steroids over 12 months

Child prescribed asthma medication but still experiencing persistent symptoms of asthma or where symptoms are suggestive of asthma (cough/wheeze/shortness of breath)

Child frequently missing school due to respiratory problems

Where the child and family require further education/support

Any High dependency admissions due to asthma

Early discharge from consultant from outpatient clinic to help aid support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Children's Asthma Service - Manchester Local Care Organisation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The overall aim of the service is to provide access to asthma-trained nurse specialists, delivering high-quality care management and information regarding asthma, in line with current BTS (2019) and NICE asthma standards (2021). Our Nurse Specialists will work in partnership with families in deciding treatment pathways and developing an agreed self-care package.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
August 15, 2023
Do you or your child have asthma or another chronic lung disease? If so, you may be at higher risk for severe illness from contagious viruses such as the flu or COVID-19. It's important for people with asthma to stay on track with recommended vaccinations - especially if they're diagnosed with moderate to severe asthma.

New COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are expected to be available for 2023-24. Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and Novavax are developing updated boosters of their vaccines that would target the latest Omicron subvariant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing the booster for approval.

These would be the first COVID-19 vaccines available from the manufacturers and not the U.S. government. Health insurance will cover the costs for it. However, children and adults who are uninsured will be eligible to receive the vaccines at no cost through U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) programs.

New respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines and a preventive RSV treatment are going to be available this fall. The vaccines are for adults ages 60 and older. The preventive treatment is for infants and young children.
Learn the facts about vaccines for people with asthma and allergies. Find out which vaccines are recommended for you. Then begin a conversation with your doctor, nurse and healthcare team.

Quick answers about vaccines for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions:

People with asthma who get the flu are at high risk for severe illness. Complications can arise even if their asthma is well controlled. The flu virus can inflame airways and trigger an asthma attack.

CDC recommends all people 6 months of age or older get the flu vaccine. It's the best protection against getting sick with the flu and passing it on to others.

September and October are the best times for most people to get vaccinated against the flu. But any time is better than not at all. CDC says pregnant people in their third trimester and children who need two doses or have summer doctor appointments prior to school can opt to get the flu vaccine in July or August.

Many people who are allergic to eggs express concern that vaccines have egg protein. Some - but not all - flu vaccines have egg protein. But the amount is very small. And none of the available COVID-19 vaccines contain any egg proteins so there is no egg allergy risk.

CDC guidelines say flu vaccines do not pose a risk for an allergic reaction to eggs. So it is safe for people with egg allergy to receive the flu vaccine. CDC has recommended that people with a severe egg allergy get the flu vaccine in a doctor's office so they can be monitored afterward. But in 2023, CDC said this precaution is no longer necessary.

Adults and children 6 months of age and older with asthma can get a COVID-19 vaccine and/or booster shot. This includes people with asthma who use inhaled or oral corticosteroids and biologic medications.

Allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines are very rare. If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine or any of its ingredients, then you should not get the vaccine. Talk with your doctor about other COVID-19 prevention strategies.

Several COVID-19 vaccines are available for children. The Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are available for children 6 months of age and up. Both are Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. They work by triggering an immune response that produces COVID-19 antibodies. The Novavax vaccine is available for children between the ages of 12-17. It is a protein-based vaccine that identifies the virus and can fend off infection.

Pneumonia is a serious health concern for people with asthma. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames air sacs in the lungs. It leads to cough, fever and difficulty breathing.

CDC recommends the pneumonia vaccine for:

children younger than 2

adults between the ages of 19 and 64 with asthma

all adults 65 years of age or older

Two respiratory syncytial vaccines (RSV) for older adults ages 60+ are coming in fall 2023. A monoclonal antibody that protects infants and young children from RSV is also coming this fall. The treatments develop antibodies against the protein that enters cells and causes the virus. People with asthma diagnosed with RSV are at risk for more serious illness.

The RSV vaccines are expected to offer protection for an entire RSV season, which is about five months. They could potentially last up to a year.

People with asthma are at higher risk for getting whooping cough. They are also at risk for developing severe asthma symptoms if they do get whooping cough.

Most children receive a series of whooping cough vaccines in the first year of life. They receive boosters between 15 and 18 months and between 4 and 6 years of age.

Adults who have never had a whooping cough vaccine should also get one. Expectant mothers should get the whooping cough vaccine because it helps protect newborns.

Some vaccines use vial closures and syringes that may contain latex proteins. There is concern that latex proteins may get mixed in with the vaccine. The risk level for a latex-allergic reaction to a vaccine is very low. You should receive your vaccines unless you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to latex.

Vaccines for Adults (age 19 and older)

Wondering what vaccines you may need for yourself? Not sure if it's time for a pneumonia vaccine if you have asthma or COPD? Take this quiz to get a list of vaccines you may need. Discuss the quiz results with your healthcare team. The quiz is also available in Spanish.

Vaccines and Pregnancy

Wondering about whether vaccines are safe during pregnancy? Not sure if you should get the flu shot if you are pregnant and have asthma or other chronic lung disease? You can take a quiz to get a list of vaccines you may need during pregnancy.

Discuss the quiz results with your healthcare team. The quiz is also available in Spanish. You can also read up on Vaccines and Pregnancy: 8 Things You Need to Know.

Vaccines for Travelers

Not sure what vaccines you may need before traveling overseas if you have asthma? You can take a quiz to get a list of vaccines you may need before you travel. Discuss the quiz results with your healthcare team. The quiz is also available in Spanish.

Vaccines for Children (birth to 18 years)

Make sure your child is up to date on vaccinations. It is one of the best things you can do for your child. Vaccinations not only protect your child from contagious diseases, but they also protect your community. Schedule regular well-child visits with your child's doctor and ask about recommended vaccines.

Wondering what vaccines your child may need? Take this quick quiz to get a list of recommended vaccines for children. It is helpful for students heading off to college, too. The quiz is also available in Spanish.

Questions & Answers (Q&A) about childhood vaccinations

Here are some frequently asked questions that patients ask doctors about vaccination:

Why are vaccines important?

Before vaccines, diseases like polio, measles and smallpox would run rampant through communities. They would kill huge numbers of people. Now, thanks to vaccines, smallpox is eradicated and polio is almost non-existent.

In some areas of the United States and elsewhere in the developed world where parents opt out of vaccines, dangerous diseases such as measles and whooping cough are making a comeback. If we stop immunizing, it won't take long for outbreaks to spread. People who are not immunized put themselves and others at risk for contagious diseases.

Remember: around the world, a child dies every 20 seconds from a disease that can be prevented with a vaccine.

Why do I need to vaccinate my infant? Why can't I wait until the child is older?

Babies are born with very immature immune systems. Newborns receive some immunity from their mother, but this quickly wears off. It takes time to build it up again. Young children are vulnerable to disease. Vaccination is the best way to protect them. Delaying it puts your baby and others at higher risk for illness.

Are there side effects to vaccines?

Vaccines go through rigorous safety studies before FDA approval. Most vaccines available today have been used for decades, with few problems. Side effects are mild and rare. Through the years, vaccines have been made more safe and effective.

Do vaccines cause autism?

Vaccines do not cause autism. Vigorous studies around the world have found no connection. The original research that sparked this fear was a small study of 12 children that involved falsified evidence.

Why do vaccines contain aluminum and mercury? Aren't they dangerous?

Aluminum is an additive that makes the vaccine's active ingredients more effective. Mercury (also called thimerosal) is a preservative. Both are naturally occurring elements found in our environment. They are in foods, including fruits, vegetables and milk. In fact, the amount of aluminum and mercury in vaccines is less than what a baby receives from breast milk.

Reviewed by:
Purvi Parikh, MD, FACAAI is an adult and pediatric allergist and immunologist at Allergy and Asthma Associates of Murray Hill in New York City. She is on faculty as Clinical Assistant Professor in both departments of Medicine and Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What vaccines are recommended for adults and children with asthma? | Allergy & Asthma Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get the facts about recommended vaccines for people with asthma. Work with your healthcare team to stay on track with vaccinations for your family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The children's nasal spray flu vaccine is safe and effective. It's offered every year to children to help protect them against flu.

This page is about flu vaccination for children. Find out about flu vaccination for adults.

Flu is caused by the influenza virus. It can be a very unpleasant illness for children. It can also lead to serious problems, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Children can catch and spread flu easily. Vaccinating them also protects others who are vulnerable to flu, such as babies and older people.

If you have any questions about vaccinations, you can:

Who should have the nasal spray flu vaccine

The nasal spray flu vaccine is free on the NHS for:

children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2023 (born between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2021)

all primary school children (Reception to Year 6)

some secondary school aged children (Year 7 to Year 11)

children aged 2 to 17 years with certain long-term health conditions

If your child is aged between 6 months and 2 years and has a long-term health condition that makes them at higher risk from flu, they'll be offered a flu vaccine injection instead of the nasal spray.

This is because the nasal spray is not licensed for children under 2 years old.

The nasal spray vaccine offers the best protection for children aged 2 to 17 years. They'll be offered a flu vaccine injection if the nasal spray vaccine is not suitable for them. Injected flu vaccines are also safe and effective.

Children who should have the flu vaccine injection

Some children will be offered the injected flu vaccine if they have:

a severely weakened immune system

asthma that's being treated with long-term steroid tablets or has needed intensive care in hospital (unless the nasal spray is recommended by their asthma specialist)

a flare-up of asthma symptoms (such as they've been wheezy in the past 72 hours or are currently wheezy) and need to use a reliever inhaler more than usual

had an allergic reaction to a nasal spray flu vaccine in the past

a condition that needs salicylate therapy

Children will also be offered the injected flu vaccine if they live with somebody with a severely weakened immune system who requires isolation (for example, someone who has had a bone marrow transplant).

If you're not sure, check with the school aged immunisation service team, the nurse or GP at your surgery, or the specialist if your child has hospital care.

The nasal spray vaccine contains small traces of gelatine derived from pigs (porcine gelatine). If you do not accept the use of porcine gelatine in medical products, the injected vaccine is available as an alternative.

Injected flu vaccines are given into the muscle of the upper arm or the thigh for children under 1 year.

Children with long-term health conditions

Children with certain long-term health conditions, such as diabetes or heart problems, are at higher risk from flu.

It's important they're vaccinated.

Examples of long-term health conditions

Long-term health conditions that qualify for the NHS flu vaccine include:

serious breathing problems, such as having asthma that needs steroid inhaler or tablets, or having had a lung or airways infection in the past that needed hospital treatment

serious heart conditions

kidney or liver disease

weakened immune system as a result of a condition or treatment with medicines such as steroid tablets or chemotherapy

problems with the spleen like sickle cell disease, or the spleen has been removed

learning disability

problems with the nervous system, such as cerebral palsy

If it's their first time being vaccinated against flu, children under 9 years old with certain long-term health conditions will usually be offered a 2nd dose of the flu vaccine from 4 weeks after the 1st dose. This helps them develop immunity against flu for that first season.

Where to have the flu vaccine

Child's age

Where to have the flu vaccine

Child's age

All children at primary school (Reception to Year 6)

Where to have the flu vaccine

School

Child's age

Secondary school aged children in eligible groups (Year 7 to Year 11)

Where to have the flu vaccine

School

School aged children who miss the vaccination session at school will have other opportunities to get vaccinated. This will usually be at NHS community clinics.

Home-schooled children and children not in mainstream education should be invited for vaccination by the school aged immunisation service. If you do not hear from them, ask your Local Authority Education Department about arrangements.

School children with certain long-term health conditions

If you have a child with a certain long-term health condition, you can ask the GP surgery to give them the vaccine instead of them having it at school if you prefer.

If your child is not in one of the eligible school aged groups, ask the GP surgery to give the vaccine.

What if my child is unwell on the day?

You may be asked to wait until your child is better before having the nasal spray flu vaccine if they have:

a very blocked or runny nose - these might stop the vaccine getting into their system

a high temperature

Sometimes an injected vaccine may be offered instead.

How the nasal spray flu vaccine is given

The vaccine is given as a spray squirted up each nostril. It's quick and painless.

The vaccine will still work even if your child gets a runny nose, sneezes or blows their nose.

How effective is the nasal spray flu vaccine?

The nasal spray flu vaccine gives children the best protection against flu. The injected flu vaccine is a good alternative if the nasal spray vaccine cannot be used.

It may take around 2 weeks for the flu vaccine to work.

Any child who catches flu after vaccination is less likely to be seriously ill or be admitted to hospital.

Side effects of the children's flu vaccine

Flu vaccines are very safe.

Side effects of the nasal spray flu vaccine are mild and do not last long. They include:

a runny or blocked nose

a headache

tiredness

loss of appetite

For the injected flu vaccine, most side effects are also mild and do not last long. They include:

a sore arm (or thigh) where the injection was given

a slightly raised temperature

aching muscles

These side effects usually last for 1 or 2 days.

Allergic reactions to the flu vaccine

It's rare for anyone to have a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccine. If they do, it usually happens within minutes.

The person who vaccinates you or your child will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.

Gelatine, neomycin and gentamicin allergies

Let your doctor or nurse know if your child has had severe allergic reactions to:

gelatine

the antibiotics neomycin and gentamicin

Egg allergies

The nasal spray flu vaccine has a low egg content and is safe to give in school or in a clinic to children who do not have a serious egg allergy.

Children who have previously needed treatment in intensive care for an egg allergy may be offered the nasal spray vaccine in hospital.

If you're not sure, check with the school aged immunisation service, the nurse or GP at your surgery, or a hospital specialist.

For more advice on what to expect after vaccinations and how to treat common side effects, read vaccination tips for parents.

What's in the nasal spray flu vaccine?

The nasal spray flu vaccine contains small amounts of weakened flu viruses. They do not cause flu in children.

As flu viruses change each year, a new nasal spray vaccine has to be given each year.

The brand of nasal spray flu vaccine available in the UK is called Fluenz Tetra.

The nasal spray vaccine contains small traces of gelatine derived from pigs (porcine gelatine). If this is not suitable because you do not accept the use of porcine gelatine in medical products, a flu vaccine injection is available that contains no gelatine.

Your child may be able to have an injected vaccine instead.
See the emc website for a full list of ingredients in the Fluenz Tetra nasal spray patient information leaflet

More information and other formats

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about the nasal spray flu vaccine for children, which children can have the nasal spray, safety and side effects.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Every year lots of people with lung conditions catch flu and for some people, this can be bad news.

You might find that the flu causes your lung symptoms to flare up or that it triggers an asthma attack. It's important to protect yourself so you don't end up being seriously ill or needing to go to hospital.

An easy way to help protect yourself from the flu is by getting your flu vaccine and for most people with long conditions the flu vaccine is free. If you're not sure whether you're eligible for a free flu vaccine speak to your GP practice or pharmacists.

Most people get the flu vaccine without any problems however I find that some people have a few worries beforehand. Asthma + Lung UK carried out a survey and these are the most frequently asked questions from people with lung conditions about the flu vaccine.

Flu vaccines help protect you against the main types of flu viruses around each year but even if you get your flu jab there's still a chance you might get flu. If you do catch the flu after getting vaccinated it probably won't be as bad or as long. You're also less likely to pass the flu on to others. The flu vaccine does not stop people from getting other viruses, like colds or coughs.

It's important to get your flu jab every year. This is because the flu vaccine helps protect against the main types of flu viruses. Each year the type of flu virus that spreads each winter is different so the vaccine you are offered also changes every year. This gives you and others around you the best protection.

It's best to get the vaccine in autumn or early winter before the flu starts to spread. It can take 10 to 14 days for the flu vaccine to work so try to get your vaccine as soon as possible once they're available. However, flu season is long and the vaccine is available until the end of March. It's never too late to protect yourself

The main ingredient of any vaccine is a small amount of bacteria viruses or toxins that's been weakened or destroyed in a laboratory first. This means it's safe and there's no risk of healthy people catching a disease from the vaccine.

The vaccine sometimes contains other ingredients that make the vaccine safe and more effective. These can include pork gelatine and egg protein. There's no evidence that any of these ingredients cause harm when used in such small amounts.

Creating the right flu vaccine for each country each year is a global effort. There are National influenza centres in over a hundred and fourteen countries that receive and test thousands of flu virus samples from patients. All year round in February the World Health Organization makes recommendations on what flu vaccine should be made available for the upcoming winter in the northern hemisphere. This includes the UK.

It's safe to have the flu vaccine alongside other winter vaccines like the COVID-19 autumn booster vaccine and the pneumonia vaccine. In fact, you might be offered them at the same time.

People often worry about the side effects of vaccines but the flu vaccine is safe for people with lung conditions. It will not make your symptoms worse.

There are several types of injected flu vaccines. None of them contain the live virus so they cannot give you flu. The nasal spray flu vaccine which is usually given to children contains a small amount of weakened flu viruses but it does not cause flu in children.

People often get worried about feeling ill after getting their flu vaccine. Some people do have mild side effects like a sore arm a slightly raised temperature or achy muscles. If you do have any side effects they should only last for a day or so you can ask your pharmacist for advice about how to manage any side effects.

Hopefully, you'll find this video useful. If you want to know more about the flu vaccine visit Asthma + Lung UK's website or give our helpline a call.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Getting the flu vaccine is safe and easy. The flu vaccine is free for most people with asthma and lung conditions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Kooth.com is commissioned by the NHS, Local Authorities, charities and businesses to provide anonymous and personalised mental health support for Children and Young People

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Anxiety can be a problem when: you have it much of the time; it is becoming unmanageable; and it comes up unexpectedly. Generalised anxiety is description used when people feel anxious most of the time and experience effects of anxiety in their body.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When Is Anxiety Normal?

It's normal to feel anxious, nervous, or worried at times. Maybe you've felt anxious when you had to talk in front of a group. Or nervous before a tryout or a big test. Maybe you have felt anxious when you weren't sure your surroundings were safe. Or worried when a loved one was sick.

Most people have felt like this.

Anxious feelings can be uncomfortable - but they serve a purpose. They warn that something that matters to you is at stake. With anxious feelings, you might think, "I need to do well here." Or, "This counts - get ready." Or, "Be careful."

Anxiety sets off the body's fight-or-flight response. This is also called the stress response. It's a normal release of hormones that helps you gather the focus and energy you need for a challenge or possible threat. The fight-or-flight response causes the physical feelings that can happen with anxiety.

For example, when you're anxious, you might feel 'butterflies' in your stomach. Or you might have sweaty palms or shaky hands. You might notice your mouth is a little dry. Or your face feels a little warm. You might feel your breathing or heartbeat get faster. With anxiety, you might feel one - or a few - of these.

Feelings like these can help you do what you need to do. You can go ahead with the tryout or take the exam - even though you're nervous. You can check your surroundings to make sure you're safe. You can focus on what a loved one needs and plan how to help instead of getting caught up in the worry.

When you know that anxiety is normal for the situation, you can let go of focusing all your attention on the anxious thoughts and feelings. Instead, you can turn your attention to what you need to do. You don't need to do things to make anxiety 'go away.' You can take a breath and face the challenge. You'll find that anxiety fades on its own.

When Is Anxiety a Problem?

Some people feel anxiety that is too intense. It seems like more than they can cope with. Worries or fears take up too much of their time and energy. Some people might begin to avoid things that make them anxious. These things can be signs of an anxiety disorder.

If you feel like anxiety is too much, tell a parent, school counselor, or your doctor. There are treatments for anxiety disorders. The sooner you start getting help, the better you will feel.

Date reviewed: March 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of us experience it from time to time. Find out about normal anxiety and learn when anxiety can develop into a problem for some people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Even before COVID-19, NHS hospital admissions for lung conditions were rising three times faster than average admissions. People living with lung conditions are often overlooked and being left behind. Their condition isn't accurately diagnosed at an early stage - and even when they are diagnosed, they're not given the care they need.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We're the only UK charity looking after the nation's lungs. Together, we're making sure that one day everyone will breathe clean air with healthy lungs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Stress can sometimes be useful. A small amount can help us to get on with things or feel energised. It can help us to do well in exams, win the race, or move away from danger.

But sometimes we can have too much stress or feel that something is putting more pressure on us than we can cope with.

It might be acute stress - something demanding that doesn't last long, like an exam.

Or it could be chronic stress - difficulties in life that go on for a long time.

Whether it's work, illness, money problems, or relationships, there are lots of reasons we can feel stressed. Poor sleep and diet can also add to the problem.

If we think and feel a stressful event is too much for us to handle or we feel threatened by it, we're more likely to react with worse asthma symptoms.

Find out more about the signs of stress.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out how stress can trigger asthma symptom and how to lower your risk of stress affecting your asthma.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out how anxiety can affect your lung condition, and what treatments and support are available

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1:2:1 Knowledge - What Is Asthma (Vox Pops)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Meet our Ambassador

Laura Weightman is a middle-distance runner who competes in the 1500 and 5000 meters.
Her achievements include reaching the 1500 metres final at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics and winning silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Her Mile run best of 4:20.49 in 2018, ranks her in the world all-time top 25.

Laura also suffers from asthma and is proud to be our BeatAsthma Ambassador.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Working together to change the lives of children and young people with asthma

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hello, I'm Pam. I'm a respiratory nurse specialist. Using a spacer with your inhaler means more of the medicine gets down into your lungs and is a great way to help manage your symptoms. Getting the technique right is very important. It may take a few tries to feel comfortable using a spacer, but it does get easier with practice. I'm going to show you how to use an inhaler with a spacer using what's called 'tidal breathing' or the 'multiple breath' technique. This is usually recommended if you can't hold your breath for five seconds after using your inhaler or if you are having an asthma attack. For most adults and older children, your spacer can be used with a mouthpiece, but a spacer with a mask may be given to you if you cannot put your lips around the mouthpiece to form a tight seal. If your doctor or nurse has recommended a different technique called the 'single breath and hold', watch our other video. And if you're helping a baby or child use a spacer, watch our videos on children and spacers. To use your inhaler with a spacer using the tidal breathing technique: First, hold your inhaler upright and take the cap off. Check there's nothing inside the mouthpiece. Shake it well. If your spacer has a valve, make sure the valve is facing upwards. Put your inhaler into the hole at the back of the spacer. If the mouthpiece of your spacer has a cap, take it off. Sit or stand up straight and slightly tilt your chin up as it helps the medicine reach your lungs. The next steps all happen smoothly in one action. Put your lips around the mouthpiece of the spacer to make a tight seal. Press the canister on the inhaler once to release the medicine and breathe in and out slowly and steadily into the spacer five times. Remove the inhaler and spacer from your mouth. If you've been prescribed a second puff, keep the spacer away from your mouth, wait a minute and shake the inhaler again. Then repeat the steps. Some small volume spacers make a whistling sound if you are breathing in too fast. If you are using a large volume spacer like this one, you can use the same breathing technique. With tidal breathing your spacer should make a clicking sound as the valve opens and closes. When you've finished, take the inhaler out of the spacer and replace the caps on both the inhaler and the spacer. If you've used an inhaler that contains steroids, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the chance of side effects. For top tips on how to clean your spacer, please visit our website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to use a pMDI inhaler with a spacer - tidal breathing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How to use a pMDI inhaler with a spacer using the tidal or multiple breathing technique. Part of our series of videos endorsed by the UK Inhaler Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hi I'm Caroline. I'm a specialist respiratory nurse. Using a spacer and face mask when you're giving a baby or child medicine from an inhaler means more of the medicine gets down into their lungs and is a great way to help manage their symptoms. Getting the technique right is very important. It may take a few tries to feel comfortable giving medicine this way, but it does get easier with practice. I'm going to show you how to use a spacer with a face mask for a baby or child. If you're an adult using a spacer with a face mask, watch our video for adults. When using an inhaler and spacer with a face mask for a baby or child, how you hold or sit with your child will depend on their age. If you have a baby or young toddler, sit them on your lap facing you so you can keep eye contact. With very young babies, some parents find it works best to tilt them back slightly. If your child is older, you can sit them on your lap either sideways or facing away from you, as it's easier to handle the inhaler and spacer. If they prefer to sit or stand by themselves, it works best to face them. First, hold the inhaler upright and take the cap off. Check there's nothing inside the mouthpiece. Shake the inhaler well. Put the inhaler into the hole at the back of the spacer with the indent for the nose on the mask facing upwards. Ask them to sit or stand up straight and slightly tilt their chin up as it helps the medicine reach their lungs. Put the mask on their face to make a seal over their nose and mouth. The next steps all happen smoothly in one action. Encourage your child to breathe in and out. Press the canister on the inhaler once and get them to breathe in and out slowly and steadily five times. Remove the mask from their face. If your child is using a small volume spacer with a mask, some of them make a whistling sound if they are breathing in too fast. If your baby is using a large volume spacer with the mask, you need to tilt the end of the inhaler up to open the valve. The device should make a clicking sound as the valve opens and closes. If your child needs to take another dose, remove the mask from their face. Wait 30 seconds to a minute and shake the inhaler again, then repeat the steps. When you've finished, take the inhaler out of the spacer and replace the cap. If your child has used an inhaler that contains steroids wipe your child's face with a damp cloth and rinse their mouth out with water or brush their teeth to avoid side effects. Remember, you can get more top tips on helping your child use their inhaler by watching our other videos.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to use a spacer with a mask for a baby or child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Using an inhaler with a spacer and face mask helps children and babies get the right dose of medication. We show you how to get the technique right in our video

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this short video, we show you how to use a Easyhaler inhaler. Part of Asthma + Lung UK’s series of inhaler technique videos endorsed by the UK Inhaler Group.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hi I'm Sonia, a respiratory physiotherapist. I'm going to show you how to use an Accuhaler. This is a dry powdered device or a DPI. Getting your inhaler technique right is very important because it helps you manage your symptoms better. It may take a few tries to feel comfortable using your inhaler, but it does get easier with practice. To use your inhaler, first slide open the cover. Check there's nothing inside the mouthpiece and check the dose counter to make sure there are enough puffs left. Hold the inhaler horizontally, but don't tip it upside down as the powder may fall out. Load the device by pushing back the lever with your thumb until it clicks. Sit or stand up straight and slightly tilt your chin up as this helps the medicine reach your lungs. The next steps all happen in one smooth action. Breathe out gently and slowly away from the inhaler, until your lungs feel empty and you feel ready to breathe in. Put your lips around the mouthpiece to make a tight seal. Breathe in quickly and deeply until your lungs feel full. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for up to ten seconds or for as long as you comfortably can. Then breathe out gently away from your inhaler. If you've been prescribed a second puff, slide the cover closed to reset the inhaler and repeat the steps. When you've finished, close the cover. If you've used an inhaler that contains steroids, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce any chance of side effects. For more tips on using your inhaler, why not watch our other videos.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this short video, we show you how to use an Accuhaler inhaler. Part of our series of inhaler technique videos, endorsed by the UK Inhaler Group.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Hi I'm Debbie. I'm an asthma specialist nurse. I'm going to show you how to use a Turbohaler. This is a dry powder device or DPI. Getting your inhaler technique right is very important because it helps you manage symptoms better. It may take a few tries to feel comfortable using your inhaler but it does get easier with practice. When you first get your Turbohaler, you need to get it ready to use. First, twist off the cover and hold the Turbohaler upright with the coloured base at the bottom. Turn the coloured base as far as it will go in one direction and then all the way back again. You should hear a click on one of these turns. It doesn't matter which way you turn it first. Repeat the sequence once more. Your Turbohaler is now ready to use for the first time. When you use your inhaler again, you don't need to repeat these steps. To use your inhaler, first twist off the top cover. Check there's nothing inside the mouthpiece. Check the dose counter to make sure the inhaler isn't empty. On some Turbohalers, the dose counter is here and shows the number of puffs left. On other Turbohalers, the dose counter is here. When there are only 20 doses left in the inhaler, a red strip will appear in the top of the window. When it gets to the bottom of the window, this means your inhaler is empty. Hold the inhaler upright. Turn the coloured base to the right as far as it will go and then to the left until you hear a click. Your dose is now ready. Sit or stand up straight and slightly tilt your chin up as it helps the medicine reach your lungs. The next steps all happen smoothly in one action. Breathe out gently and slowly away from the inhaler, until your lungs feel empty and you feel ready to breathe in. Hold the inhaler horizontally but don't tip it upside down as the powder may fall out. Put your lips around the mouthpiece to make a tight seal, then breathe in quickly and deeply until your lungs feel full. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for up to ten seconds or for as long as you comfortably can. Then breathe out gently away from the inhaler. If you've been prescribed a second puff, repeat these steps. When you've finished, twist the cover back on. If you've used an inhaler that contains steroids, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the chance of side effects. For more tips on using your inhaler, why not watch our other videos.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this short video, we show you how to use a Turbohaler inhaler. Part of Asthma + Lung UK's series of inhaler technique videos endorsed by the UK Inhaler Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this short video we show you how to use an Easi-Breathe inhaler. Part of our series of inhaler technique videos endorsed by the UK Inhaler Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Supporting long-term conditions that start in childhood.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1:4:1 Knowledge - Managing Symptoms (Vox Pops)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1:2:2 Knowledge - The How And Why Of Asthma

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1:7:4 Knowledge - Triggers / House Dust Mites

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Moving On Asthma Hi there! Welcome to the Moving On Asthma website – a resource for young people living with asthma. Develop those essential self-management skills and learn to access healthcare independently one video at a time. From what is asthma to ordering prescriptions, we’ve got it covered. I…

# data[].attributes.headline
Is your child using the correct spacer? 

# data[].attributes.subject
Is your child using the correct spacer? 

# data[].attributes.headline
Examples of health conditions which make it important to be vaccinated. 

# data[].attributes.subject
Examples of health conditions which make it important to be vaccinated. 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tips for parents to help manage childhood asthma - Punjabi translation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tips for parents to help manage childhood asthma - Bengali translation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to use a peak flow meter | Asthma + Lung UK