Child Allergy Injuries

When it comes to child allergies, responsibility falls on the child, the child’s family, and the school. Responsibility first falls on the child’s family. The child’s family must do the following:

• Notify the school of the child’s allergy
• Work with the school to develop a plan that accommodates the child’s needs
• Provide written medical documentation that describes instructions and medications as described by a physician
• Teach your child about their food allergy and what foods are unsafe
• Give the school emergency contact information

Once the school has been notified of a student’s life-threatening food allergy, it then becomes their responsibility to develop policies and procedures that will reduce a student’s exposure to allergens, and treat allergic reactions.

The school nurse must also create an individualized health care plan for the student before he or she begins school, or immediately after the student is diagnosed with a life-threatening allergy. After completing the individualized health care plan, the nurse must conduct a meeting with the food service manager, the student’s parents, the student, and the student’s teacher.

Schools should also ensure that any staff members who work with the student receive basic education regarding food allergies, prevention, and management of allergic reactions.

Once the school has taken precautions and is aware of the student’s allergy, it now becomes the responsibility of the student to prevent an allergic reaction. The student can prevent an allergic reaction by:

• Not trading food with others
• Not eating any foods with unknown ingredients
• Being proactive in the management of their food allergy
• Notifying an adult if they believe they have eaten something they are allergic to

If you believe your child has suffered an allergic reaction due to school negligence, contact an experienced school injury attorney at JacksonWhite.