Allergies, also known as allergic diseases, are a number of conditions caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to typically harmless substances in the environment. Common allergens include pollen and certain food.  Insect stings, food and medications are common causes of severe reactions which may lead to severe reactions. 
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death. The following symptoms may occur: itchy rash, throat or tongue swelling, shortness of breath, vomiting, lightheadedness, and low blood pressure. If a student is showing signs of a anaphylaxis reaction the student will be accessed and the medication Epinephrine will be administered immediately. Staff will activate the Emergency Medical Team and the parent/guardian will be notified. 

If you child has an allergan please notify the school prior to the beginning of the school year or as soon as the child is diagnosed by a medical provider. If your child has a life-threatening allergy a health care plan must be developed by the parent, nurse and physician. See attached links. 
No peanuts, or foods containing peanuts, or fish will be served in K-8 schools. Students are allowed to bring peanut products into the school building. Some classrooms may be designated as allergy safe classrooms to protect students with life threatening allergies. The school website will post daily menus to assist parents in selecting safe food for their child. 

Drug Allergy
A drug allergy is the abnormal reaction of your immune system to a medication (mayoclinic.org).  Any medications such as; over the counter, prescription or herbal is capable of inducing a drug allergy.  However a drug allergy is more likely with certain medications. 
The most common signs and symptoms of drug allergy are hives, rash or fever. Serious reactions, including a life threatening condition that affects multiple body systems (anaphylaxis) may occur. 
If a student does have a drug allergy, the best prevention is to avoid the problem drug. Steps  to protect yourself include: Inform health care workers by ensuring the allergy is clearly identified on your school record and wear a medical bracelet that identifies your drug allergy. 

Food Allergy
Food allergies are a growing food safety and public health concern that affect an estimated 8% of children in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018). A food allergy occurs when the body has a specific and reproducible immune response to certain foods. (Boyce J, Burks A, 2010). There is no cure for food allergies. Strict avoidance of the food allergen is the only way to prevent a reaction. It may not always be easy or possible to avoid certain foods. 
If a student has a food allergy a developed plan for prevention of an allergic reaction and responding to a food allergy emergency, including anaphylaxis will be immediately put in place. 

• Allergy Management Plan Form W11

• Anaphylaxis Action Plan Form W12

• Health Management Plan Form W13