June 17, 2026
Don’t let allergies and asthma take the “sparkle” out of your holiday
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (June 18, 2026) – The Fourth of July is about fireworks, barbecues and spending time with family and friends. But if you or your child has allergies or asthma, holiday activities can sometimes bring unexpected triggers. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help you enjoy the festivities while keeping symptoms under control.
“This Fourth of July marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding,” says allergist Cherie Zachary, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI). “As Americans come together to celebrate with family, friends, food, and fireworks, they should enjoy the holiday while keeping health and safety in mind. For the millions of people living with allergies and asthma, Independence Day activities can present unique challenges. A few proactive steps to manage potential triggers can help ensure that everyone avoids allergy and asthma flares.”
Here are five quick tips from ACAAI to help you and those in your family with allergies and asthma have the best Fourth of July possible.
- Avoid Smoke: Don’t Let the Fireworks Take Your Breath Away – Smoke comes in many different forms during summer holidays, including fireworks, bonfires, and grills. No matter the source, it’s important for those with asthma to avoid smoke as it can lead to asthma attacks.
- Stinging Insects: “Bee” Prepared – If you are headed to an outdoor event this Fourth of July and suffer from an insect venom allergy, make sure to pack two doses of epinephrine in case of an insect sting. Avoid walking barefoot in the grass, and cover food containers and cans to keep insects away. It’s important to be prepared in case of an emergency by carrying the necessary medications.
- Watch What’s on the Grill: Tick Bites can Lead to a Meat Allergy – While you may not think of hamburgers and hot dogs as allergy concerns, a bite from the Lone Star tick can lead to a condition known as alpha-gal syndrome, a potentially serious allergy to red meat. People with this allergy may react to meat from mammals such as beef, pork, and lamb, and in some cases, even high-fat dairy products like ice cream. As awareness of alpha-gal syndrome grows, more cases are being diagnosed across the United States. If you experience hives, stomach symptoms, or other possible allergic reactions several hours after eating meat, talk with an allergist about whether alpha-gal syndrome could be the cause.
- Take the Plunge with Caution: Chlorine Can Cause Irritation – Planning to cool off in the pool this Fourth of July? While Chlorine is not a true allergen, it can cause irritation on the skin or in the eyes. Showering before and after swimming in a chlorinated pool can help reduce symptoms. If your irritation tends to be severe, consider avoiding the pool this season.
- Prepare for More Than Just the Forecast: Temperature Changes Can Trigger Asthma Symptoms – Whether you’re going between cold air-conditioned homes and outdoor patios or jumping into cold pools, it’s important to know that sudden changes in temperature can trigger an asthma flare. Try to transition gradually, when possible, into an intermediate space, and keep indoor temperatures moderate. Always carry your asthma medications with you.
Celebrating the 4th of July when you have allergies or asthma requires careful planning. Don’t be shy about discussing food allergies and other concerns with your host ahead of time. By understanding triggers, managing medications, and creating a safe environment, you can enjoy the festivities while minimizing health risks. If your allergies and asthma aren’t well controlled, an allergist can help you live the life you want. Use the ACAAI allergist locator to find an allergist in your area.
About ACAAI
ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,500 allergists, immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy, and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma and administer immunotherapy and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit http://acaai.org. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter and Threads.
