(NC) -- Fall is here, which means so is the contagious cold virus. Dr. Chapman, a respirologist at University Health Network, shares his expert advice about the rise in infections during this time of year and explains how it can affect your lung health.

Q: Dear Dr. Chapman: I've noticed that every September, along with new friends, my kids bring home viruses which quickly spread to the whole family. What makes it worse is that when I get a cold it often triggers my asthma, causing me to wheeze and be short of breath. Why does this happen? Can you share some advice on how my family can avoid feeling like we need another vacation when it's back to school time?

A: Doctors know that during the fall season, there is a sharp rise in visits to the emergency room for the care of asthma attacks – the highest seen all year. This may be caused by patients with asthma taking a break from their asthma medication during the summer or children being back in the classroom and in close contact with each other. Close contact with others allows viruses like the cold and flu to spread quickly and can eventually affect the rest of the family, resulting in a household full of runny noses, coughing and congestion.

For many of us, this is simply a nuisance. But for approximately 3 million Canadians with asthma, a common cold can trigger an asthma attack causing lung inflammation and airway tightening that could send you to the emergency department.

Since avoiding your kids isn't an option, there are simple steps you can take to help minimize the risk of catching a cold and triggering an asthma attack.

Remember to wash your hands properly and often. Also teach your children and other family members about the importance of fighting germs by keeping their hands clean. Try to avoid touching your face as much as possible, to avoid the spread of germs. It's also important that you are taking your asthma medications as prescribed by your doctor, to help maintain control of your condition. This means taking your daily maintenance medication even when you are not having asthma symptoms.

While combating the common cold is something we all face, this fall try to stay well with a lesson in prevention for you and your family.

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