What to do if your student has severe allergies

Many students have mild allergies, such as springtime reactions to tree and grass pollen that cause itchy, watery eyes and runny noses. These types of mild allergies do not need to be reported on the nurse alert form.

Severe allergies

 

If your student has a severe allergy that is potentially life-threatening, you need to inform the school where your child attends and report it on the nurse alert form. Severe allergies are considered serious abnormal reactions of the body, which are potentially life-threatening. Schools need documentation of these health conditions and necessary treatment in order to effectively care for your student.

What you need to report

Severe allergies that must be reported include life-threatening reactions to:

• • Insects
  • Dairy
  • Nuts (i.e., peanuts)
  • Shellfish
  • Eggs

These and other types of life-threatening conditions such as severe asthma must be reported to your student’s school through the required documentation before the student starts school.

Reporting severe allergies

If your student has a life-threatening allergy, you must complete the allergy health care plan before he/she can attend school. Your child’s school nurse will work with students, parents and health care providers to develop the plan.

Other forms that may be required include:

• Authorization for Administration of Medication at School
• Authorization for Administration of Epinephrine (EpiPen)
• Authorization for Release of Records/Information

Note: All student health forms are available in the district forms library or in school offices.

What you don’t need to report

Mild allergies, such as hay fever or springtime allergies that are not life-threatening do not need to be reported on the nurse alert form.

 

When the allergy affects what your child can eat

If your child has special dietary needs due to their allergy, you may request accommodations from nutrition services. Go to the Special Dietary Needs and Requests page for more information.