Life threatening allergies are a growing concern for our school population. Please take a minute to review the following points so that we can all help to keep our students safe.
Allergy Awareness
Awareness
- Prevention and preparedness are pillars of allergy management. T/E District Policy #5403 addresses this issue.
- Recognize anaphylaxis – a sudden, severe allergic reaction. Symptoms can include: hives, itching and redness on skin, lips and eyelids, swelling and itching of the mouth and throat, nausea and vomiting, paleness, dizziness, loss of consciousness.
- Know how to give epinephrine: research on-line video instruction.
Prevention
- Avoid the allergen.
- Know the different routes of exposure (mouth, skin, respiratory, nose, eyes).
- Read labels, know hidden ingredients.
- Know how to avoid cross-contact.
Preparedness
If you or someone you know has a life threatening allergy:
- Always have the epinephrine auto-injector and emergency care plan available.
- Know when and how to use the auto-injector.
- All caregivers should know how and when to give the auto-injector.
Support
- Education and discussion of this topic with your child can create an environment of support and understanding.
- Students who have life threatening allergies need all of us to keep them safe.
–The T/E School District Nursing Staff