By Gina Mennett Lee, M.Ed.

There have multiple deaths in the food allergy community over the last week or so.  Accidents will happen and not all food allergen exposures will be prevented.  However, food allergy deaths can be prevented.

1. Know the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis.

2. Know how to use your epinephrine auto-injector.

3.  Never eat a food without knowing the ingredients and if it was prepared and handled without cross-contact with your allergens.

4. Clean hands and eating surfaces before eating.

…and most important…

3.  ALWAYS CARRY EPI & USE IT WHEN NEEDED!  

If you or a loved one has a food allergy, please always be prepared to handle anaphylaxis.