Anaphylaxis

Dear LPS community,                  

We would like to draw your attention to an essential aspect of our school community – anaphylaxis awareness.

Did you know at LPS we have numerous students and staff who are anaphylactic?

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction to a substance (allergen) in the environment which is usually harmless.  Nuts, eggs, insect bites, medications and latex are common allergens.

What are the signs and symptoms? 

Mild to moderate allergic reaction: 

• Swelling of lips, face, eyes 

• Hives or welts 

• Tingling mouth 

• Abdominal pain, vomiting (these are signs of a severe allergic reaction to insects) 

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) 

Any one of the following signs: 

• Difficult/noisy breathing 

• Swelling of tongue 

• Swelling/tightness in throat 

• Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice 

• Wheeze or persistent cough 

• Persistent dizziness or collapse 

• Pale and floppy (young children)

How is anaphylaxis treated? 

If our students and staff are exposed to these allergens, they may get a severe reaction and need to use an EpiPen.  This involves injecting adrenaline into their thigh muscle to help stop the reaction. If someone is treated with an EpiPen, an ambulance must be called to take them immediately to hospital.

How you can help!

To ensure the safety of everyone at LPS, we kindly ask for your cooperation:

• Please be mindful about sending in nut products (or other known class allergens) in       lunchboxes and refrain from bringing balloons on-site. 

• Talk with your child about not sharing food or offering food to students with food allergy. 

• Remind your child about washing hands after eating if they have eaten the food a classmate is allergic to. 

• Talk with your child about the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis and the importance of getting an adult’s help if they see anyone with these symptoms.

Thank you for your support in keeping our students and staff safe!