Food Allergy Awareness
About 6-10 out of 100 students have serious food allergies. These children are at risk for anaphylaxis, a severe, generalized, systemic allergic reaction characterized by hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, gastrointestinal symptoms, and possible loss of blood pressure. A Life-Threatening allergic reaction requires emergency treatment. Peanuts and tree nuts are amongst the most common allergens. There aren’t any medications to cure food allergies however there are medications to treat them. Scientists are working hard for a cure and have been making progress. The only way to prevent a Life-Threatening allergic reaction is strict avoidance of the allergen.
Sources: Massachusetts Department of Public Health, School Health Unit 2012
Safety is a critical priority for our students and staff at Conant. One major way we try to provide a safe environment is to limit the exposure to allergens. During lunch students who bring peanuts or tree nuts and products with them or processed with them sit at designated peanut/nut tables. These are cleaned after each lunch period with separate buckets and sponges or towels. Groups that use Conant school before or after school should not bring in peanut and nut products as our staff cannot monitor residue left on furniture, doors, in bathrooms, etc.
Some K-3 parents have received a letter stating that there is a child with a peanut and or nut allergy in the classroom and that snacks sent into the classroom should not contain peanut or nut products. Please follow these guidelines. Some examples of nut products are Nutella, granola bars or energy bars.
Students with serious food allergies and their families can feel left out if they are not included on playdates or parties. Social support is important. Don’t hesitate to ask questions so you can increase your support. Consider finding out what your children know about food allergies.
Here are some great links and websites that have information about hosting someone with serious food allergies and food allergies in general.
https://www.allergyhome.org/resources/families-without-food-allergies/
http://www.kidswithfoodallergies.org/
https://www.allergyhome.org
NOTE: Please be sure to read the emails that continue to be sent from the District updating everyone on Coronavirus COVID-19. Wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, eat well and rest well. Good healthy wishes to you all!
Sincerely,
Heather
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Resilience is a key skill for children to learn.
Heather Makris, BSN RN NCSN
Luther Conant Elementary School Nurse
https://abschools.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=6252188
(978)266-2550
(978)264-3329 fax