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Question & Answer

Q: I'm going to a camp this summer and I have asthma. What do I need to do?

A: There are usually a few extra asthma triggers that you are not used to at summer camps, overnight camps or even when you go camping. Possible asthma hazards include:
- Cabins that are closed up for winter can have extra moulds. If you are in a tent, you will be exposed to outdoor moulds and pollens.
- Old, musty and dusty camping mattresses and pillows.
- Pets at camp. Pet allergens can also be brought into a cabin on the clothing of other campers.
- There is usually no doctor or drug store around (they often have a camp nurse though).
- Different foods that may trigger any food allergies.

Here's what you can do:
- Make sure you keep your asthma under control before and during your camp stay.
- Ask about where you will be sleeping. Bring your own pillow with allergy-proof covers and ask if you can encase the mattress in allergy-proof covers.
- Ask if the camp has a camp nurse available 24 hours a day, and make sure the nurse knows about your asthma.
- Look for an asthma camp where the staff is more prepared to deal with asthma issues.
- Ask if you can be put into a cabin with campers who have no pets at home, if this may be a problem for you. .
- Ask about the kind of food you will be eating, and ask about the staff's awareness of food allergies. Bring allergy medicines and Epi-pens if needed.
- Make sure you have all your asthma medicines and don’t forget to take them during your stay. Keep extras with the camp office or nurse in case you lose yours.
- If you have problems breathing, let the camp staff and nurse know right away.

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