Asthma death rates in the Bronx are three times higher than the rest of the United States, according to a report by the Institute for Civil Infrastructure Systems.

It says hospitalization rates for the borough are even higher.

Three peaks of asthma season occur in the winter, fall and spring, with the latter being the hardest-hitting.

Doctors at Montefiore Medical Center say removing clothes that have been worn outside, closing doors and windows when pollen counts are high and avoiding the outdoors when pollen is abundant can help lessen the symptoms. If going outdoors is unavoidable, doctors recommend taking medication beforehand.

Montefiore has launched an app called ASTHMAXcel to help patients monitor their asthma. The app has animated videos that give patients more knowledge on the respiratory disease and provides games for children. It also features personalized push notifications giving medication and motivational reminders.