How can foods that are as common as a mosquito at a picnic in July and that taste so good make so many people sick—some to the point of death? Each year, almost 200 people with food allergies die from anaphylaxis—a severe allergic reaction that has symptoms like vomiting, swelling of the lips, mouth and tongue, and shortness of breath.
Food allergies are on the increase, and have become a major public health concern. It is estimated that about 9 million adults and 6 million children have food allergies, and between the years 1997 and 2007 there was about an 18% increase.
In order to keep yourself, your students, and your loved ones safe, it is important to know about food allergies and what to do if you or someone around you is experiencing an allergic reaction. Some of the most common allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, shellfish and other fish, milk, and eggs. If a person is allergic to one of these foods, even having skin contact with it can bring about a serious reaction.
An epinephrine injection is needed when someone is having an anaphylactic reaction. The injection is administered by way of an auto-injector, like an EpiPen or the new Auvi-Q, which actually talks you through the injection process. When permitted by state law, all school staff should be trained to administer epinephrine. When a school nurse is available, he or she should be notified of the emergency immediately, and if your school doesn’t have a nurse, you should find out what the protocol is for getting help. Your quick actions could save a life! Visit NEA HIN’s food allergy page for more information.
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