Page 6 - Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings, 3rd Edition Revised

Foreword
Anaphylaxis is a growing public health issue. While anaphylaxis has the potential to cause death, fatalities are rare and usually avoidable. Measures must be in place to reduce the risk of accidental exposure and to respond appropriately in an emergency. Improved patient self-management, comprehensive school board policies, standardized school anaphylaxis plans, and greater community support and involvement will all help to avert future tragedies.
In collaboration with patient allergy associations and allied healthcare professionals, the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has developed this manual primarily for non-medical people. It consists of an updated Consensus Statement and an Appendices section.
The Consensus Statement provides our recommendations for the management of anaphylaxis in the community, which are based on the most current research. While many comments refer to the school environment, key recommendations of the Emergency Protocol and many management strategies
and tips would also apply to all individuals at risk of anaphylaxis. Please note that as future research emerges, this manual may be modified.
The Appendices section provides resources that will help individuals at risk of anaphylaxis, educators, caregivers, and parents understand the basics of anaphylaxis. It is our hope that resources such as sample policies, best practices and tips, and the Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan for individuals will help schools, organizations, and individuals develop effective management strategies which are both medically sound and practical.
There may be situations where individuals have been given recommendations that differ from those outlined in this manual. In these cases, individualized instructions for risk reduction strategies and treatment of a reaction should be provided in writing by the persons’ physicians. Parents of allergic children should discuss individualized plans with their children’s school staff and caregivers.
With community support, anaphylactic reactions and fatalities can be avoided. Thank you for doing your part to protect allergic individuals.
Susan Waserman MD, FRCPC Zave Chad MD, FRCPC
Dr. Waserman is a Past President of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (2004-2006). Dr. Chad is a Past President of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (1996-1998).
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Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings
© 2005-2016 Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Foreword