Allergy Guidelines

IThe "Guidelines for the Care of Students With Food Allergies At-Risk for Anaphylaxis" are created to ensure the safety and well-being of students with food allergies in schools. These guidelines help school personnel, parents, and health professionals manage and prevent anaphylactic reactions. Details highlighted in the document linked below.

Guidelines for the Care of Students with Food Allergies At-Risk for Anaphylaxis

To report your child’s allergies to the school, please contact your child’s school nurse/clinic coordinator and/or have your primary healthcare provider complete and send the Emergency Care Plan for Students with Food Allergies form  here.(add link with it)

Guidelines for the Care of Students with Food Allergies At-Risk for Anaphylaxis (make as link) - https://www.dshs.texas.gov/texas-school-health/allergies-anaphylaxis

  1. Identification of Students: Schools should identify students with food allergies and maintain a record of their condition in collaboration with parents and healthcare providers.

  2. Emergency Action Plans: Each student with a food allergy should have an individualized emergency action plan (EAP) that includes steps to take during an allergic reaction, including the use of epinephrine auto-injectors.

  3. Training and Awareness: School staff, including teachers, administrators, and cafeteria workers, should be trained to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction and respond appropriately, including administering epinephrine when needed.

  4. Prevention Strategies: Schools should implement strategies to minimize exposure to allergens, such as allergen-free zones, safe meal preparation practices, and encouraging handwashing.

  5. Communication and Coordination: Schools should establish a communication plan between parents, school staff, and healthcare providers to ensure ongoing monitoring and care for the student.

  6. Legal Compliance: Schools must comply with federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which protect students with food allergies.

  7. Post-Incident Follow-Up: After an allergic reaction, schools should review and adjust the student’s care plan as needed, ensuring continuous protection.

These guidelines promote a proactive approach to managing food allergies, aiming to prevent incidents and ensure that students with food allergies can learn in a safe environment.