Coaches and players should prep for asthma

We write about the work of Dr. Harvey Miller and his efforts to require nebulizers near schools and sports fields in New York ["Doc's plan gets boost," News, May 29].

Long Island has approximately 55,000 school-age children with asthma. As the percentage of children with asthma continues to grow, it is likely that coaches will have the experience of having an asthmatic athlete on their teams.

National guidelines recommended an individualized action plan to follow in case of an attack. Asthma action plans are prepared by health care providers and reviewed with individuals with asthma. Rescue medications can be delivered either by metered-dose inhalers with valved holding chambers or nebulizers.

Coalition members are pediatricians dedicated to reducing the burden of asthma for affected children and their families. The coalition is a resource for parents, educators, coaches and health care professionals.

To learn how to identify an asthma attack, assist an athlete having an acute asthma episode and when to call for emergency assistance visit our website, asthmacoalitionoflongisland.org.

The coaches' cards are free of charge and can be placed directly on a clipboard.

Dr. Mary Cataletto, Northport

Editor's note: The writer is the chairwoman of the Asthma Coalition of Long Island.