The Prevalence of Peanut Allergy
The incidence of peanut allergy is increasing in U.S. children, and the problem can be serious. Learn how to recognize the symptoms and how to avoid a reaction.
Updated: December 1, 2022
In this article, you will find:
Advice for schools
What Can Schools Do to Keep Allergic Children Safe?Dr. Young stresses that schools should approach this problem on a case-by-case basis. Every school should identify students with food allergies and have a written action plan in place for each child, signed by his or her doctor. If an allergic student has been prescribed an EpiPen®, he or she must have one easily accessible at the school, in case of a reaction. Depending on the age of the student, strategies to avoid peanut exposure may include the following:
- No peanut products in the classroom (not even for science and art projects)
- Peanut-free zones in the cafeteria
- No food sharing
- Hand washing before and after eating
Further guidelines for schools can be found on the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (www.foodallergy.org).
