From a sudden and tragic death at summer camp to peanut allergies to a bill passed by the House, we’ve seen allergy stories of every kind.
Allergies don’t normally cause this much stir, but the news has been full of allergy-related issues for the last few years. One story reminds us how deadly allergies can be while the other points out why we need allergy medication in schools. Both remind us how important it is to stay on top of allergies.
Allergies: Potentially Life-Threatening
A few years ago, a girl passed away due to anaphylaxis as a result of eating a dessert that contained peanut butter, to which she was allergic. This news is especially alarming considering she was given three epinephrine injections. Epinephrine usually prevents serious allergic reactions from turning deadly. In response, the House passed a bill regarding epinephrine in schools because an allergy fatality is unlikely when epinephrine has been given.
Allergy Medication In Schools
The bill provides grant preferences to states that commit to making epinephrine available in schools. The bill also addresses the need for proper administration of the drug and the legal coverage that must be in place for school administrators to administer the drug to students who are suffering from an allergic reaction.
This bill is a comforting step in the right direction. According to Rep. Phil Roe, a Tennessee Republican who sponsored the bill, 1 out of every 13 children under 18 suffer from food allergies. Anaphylactic shock can be caused by an allergic reaction to milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, shellfish, and more. Making epinephrine available in schools is a life-saving move that will protect the well-being of many children.
Allergies: Be Aware
Allergies do not discriminate when it comes to age. Anyone can experience an allergic reaction without ever knowing that they have an allergy. About a quarter of anaphylaxis cases in schools happen to children who are not aware of their allergy. Now that school is back in session, get your children tested for allergies today!
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