From an article “Identifying and Treating Anaphylaxis in the School Setting,” by Chandra Parsley, RN, BSN

Anaphylaxis is the ninth most common emergency in the school setting.  Epinephrine is available 75% of the time, “but is only administered to children 11% of the time that it is needed.”

If anaphylaxis is not treated, it can lead to anaphylactic shock and death within minutes.

Guidelines with responsibilities

1. Parents- responsible for notifying schools, providing medications and doctor orders and helping with any health plans necessary.
2. School- communicate student needs to appropriate staff, provide staff training, store medications in safe and accessible locations, and have field trip plans.
3. Student- avoid known allergens, avoid foods with unknown ingredients and avoid sharing food from another student.  The student should let staff know                    “immediately if they feel that they have come in contact with a life-threatening allergen, so that steps for management can be implemented.”

Here is the link to the Seattle Times article about the child who died from a peanut reaction.