Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, causes cold-like signs and symptoms, such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing and sinus pressure. But unlike a cold, hay fever isn't caused by a virus. Hay fever is caused by an allergic response to outdoor or indoor allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, or tiny flecks of skin and saliva shed by cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers (pet dander).
Besides making you miserable, hay fever can affect your performance at work or school and generally interfere with your life. But you don't have to put up with annoying symptoms. You can learn to avoid triggers and find the right treatment.
It is important to notify the school if your child suffers from hayfever so that we can help manage their condition while they are at school. All families who have a child with hayfever should see their GP to obtain a Allergic Rhinitis Action Plan (see below). This ensures that the school nurse will be able to follow the plan that is catered to your child to ensure the best relief of their symptoms.
We will also be opening a space at both recess and lunch for children to retreat to on high pollen/thunderstorm asthma days. You must contact our school nurse to arrange this.
If you would like to know more about Thunderstorm Asthma, click here.
It's important for your child to see their doctor if:
They can't find relief from your hay fever symptoms
Allergy medications don't provide relief or cause annoying side effects
They have another condition that can worsen hay fever symptoms, such as nasal polyps, asthma or frequent sinus infections
Many people — especially children — get used to hay fever symptoms, so they might not seek treatment until the symptoms become severe. But getting the right treatment might offer relief.
