Parents And Students Worry About Peanut Allergies

CTV National News: Back-to-school peanut anxieties

Parents and students worry about peanut allergies

With students heading back to school in September, some parents are worried about their children's peanut allergies. Peanut allergies are the most common food allergy in Canada. According to Food Allergy Canada, about 2.5% of Canadian children have a peanut allergy. This means that in a classroom of 30 students, there is likely to be at least one student with a peanut allergy.

What to do if your child has a peanut allergy

If your child has a peanut allergy, there are some things you can do to help keep them safe. These include:

• Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen). This device contains a dose of epinephrine, which can help to stop an allergic reaction. It is important to carry an EpiPen with you at all times, in case your child is exposed to peanuts.
• Avoid peanuts and peanut-containing products. This means reading food labels carefully and avoiding any foods that contain peanuts or peanut oil. It is also important to be aware of cross-contamination, which can occur when foods that contain peanuts come into contact with other foods.
• Create a peanut-free zone at home. This means not allowing peanuts or peanut-containing products in your home. You should also wash your hands after handling peanuts or peanut-containing products.
• Educate your child about their allergy. Make sure your child knows what foods to avoid and what to do if they are exposed to peanuts. You should also give your child an EpiPen and teach them how to use it.
• Talk to your child's school. Make sure the school is aware of your child's peanut allergy. The school should have a peanut-free policy in place to help keep your child safe.

What to do if your child is exposed to peanuts

If your child is exposed to peanuts, it is important to act quickly. Give your child an EpiPen immediately and call 911. Even if your child does not have any symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Peanut allergies can be life-threatening, so it is important to err on the side of caution.

Conclusion

Peanut allergies are a serious concern for parents and students. However, there are steps that can be taken to help keep children with peanut allergies safe. By following these tips, you can help your child have a safe and happy school year.