Asthma Funding Needed to Combat Effects of Virus

With respiratory viruses forcing more asthmatic children into hospitals and emergency rooms across Missouri, Governor Nixon should consider releasing the asthma education and assessment funding passed in the fiscal year 2015 budget.

The City of St. Louis Health Department reported that the average number of respiratory problems at area hospitals is currently 56.2, which is significantly higher than the usual average of 34.1. Some of the respiratory illnesses afflicting children are fairly common for this time of year, but Missouri is one of about 20 states affected by the recent outbreak of the much rarer Enterovirus D68. This respiratory virus is especially dangerous for children with asthma.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, St. Louis Chapter (AAFA) has found that the number of children in need of asthma services is dramatically increasing. AAFA’s new caseload is generally four to five families each month, but this past month the number skyrocketed to over 30.

As respiratory viruses continue to spread, Missouri children need access to resources that will help them stay healthy and out of the hospital. The General Assembly appropriated $5.2 million for asthma education and home assessments to help low-income families manage their children’s asthma and identify triggers in the home that inadvertently worsen the condition. These services can deliver tangible benefits to kids in need. A home assessment coupled with face-to-face asthma education can improve asthma management by up to 80%, according to AAFA.

Governor Nixon vetoed the funds for asthma services, effectively killing the initiative until the legislature overrode his veto on September 10. Nixon immediately restricted the funding after the override vote, but since the money is no longer vetoed he can release the funds and allow the program to move forward at his discretion.

Children in our state need asthma education and assessments now more than ever, but the program is entirely in the Governor’s hands. Nixon has released over $140 million for education and $22 million for mental health, job development, and other programs, but prioritizing asthma funding would greatly benefit Missouri children.