This document discusses the rise in food allergies among school-aged children and the need for schools to improve their preparedness. It notes that food allergies affect 6-8% of elementary students and have increased 18% in the past decade. While most schools have emergency plans, few follow guidelines from FAAN (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network). The research aims to understand what makes schools' plans successful in ensuring student safety from allergic reactions. It concludes that food allergies are increasing in children, schools are underprepared to handle emergencies, and more education is needed for parents, teachers and students on food safety.

1. School Preparedness for Students with Severe Food Allergies

2. School Preparedness for Students with Severe Food AllergiesNuts, Dairy, Gluten, Soy… any commonality? Yes! All are allergens!Allergy or Intolerance? Symptoms are common for both.6 - 8% of elementary students are affected18% Increase in past decadein cases

3. Problem statementDue to the rise of food allergies – severe or otherwise – in young children, it is imperative that elementary schools protect their students’ health.

4. What you need to know…Food allergies are more prevalent in children

5. They are sometimes “outgrown”

6. 4 out of every 100 children has a food allergy

7. Increased risk for developing other allergies

8. Children with coexisting allergies are more prone to anaphylaxis and death

9. 3.9% of children under 17 affected This means that…

10. Tell Me More…No significant difference between genders

11. More likely to affect non-Hispanic children

12. 84% of food reactions happen in schools

13. Most schools do not use the current Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network’s (FAAN) Food Allergy Action PlanWhat is FAAN?The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network’s Food Allergy Action Plan, or FAAN, is a government supported guideline for food allergy safety. This includes (and is not limited to) :Schools be knowledgeable about current state and district policy and law