The Board of Education recognizes that students and staff with a known or an unknown history of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions may experience an episode in the educational setting. The Board of Education directs the Superintendent of Schools to develop an administrative procedure and require employees to be trained annually on this policy.
Anaphylaxis – is a sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that affects multiple organ systems of the body. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention as it can be fatal if not reversed within seconds or minutes of coming in contact with the allergen.
Allergens such as insect stings or bites, foods, latex, medications and other allergens are common causes of anaphylaxis, but it may also be idiopathic or exercise-induced. Anaphylaxis usually occurs immediately (seconds or minutes) but also may occur several hours after allergen exposure. Symptoms progress rapidly, making it a medical emergency.
Allergic Reactions – sensitive to a specific substance, called an allergen that is contacted through the skin, inhaled into the lungs, swallowed or injected.
Allergens – are substances that can cause an allergic reaction. Allergens are substances that the immune system recognizes as “foreign” or “dangerous” in some people, but cause no response for most people.
The Superintendent will require that training to all appropriate school staff regarding issues related to students with special health needs including, but not limited to, planning, maintaining a safe environment, and medication administration issues be completed on an annual basis.
House Bill 26-2009
Public Schools-Children with Anaphylactic Allergies-Reduction of Risk
Policy Adopted
2/7/13
Updated February 7, 2013
