Every May, FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) hosts a nationwide Food Allergy Awareness Week. They raise awareness on the seriousness of food allergies in order to improve public understanding of this potentially life-threatening medical condition.

Over 15 million Americans are affected by food allergies and anaphylaxis. This means many students here at Valley have food allergies! Some have even experienced serious, life-threatening reactions that have landed them in the emergency room.

This year’s Food Allergy Awareness Week is on May 8-14, 2016. Wayne Valley has been giving daily tips and informational sound bites every morning. These pieces of information help promote FARE’s theme: “Food Allergies: React with Respect.” Food Allergy Awareness Week informs the public about the serious consequences of food allergy reactions, as well as how to identify symptoms and respond in case of an emergency.

A food allergy reaction sends someone to the ER every 3 minutes. Please remember to be aware of what you are eating around your food allergy friends  because the most severe reactions can result in death. If you or one of your friends has food allergies, you should be aware of the symptoms of anaphylaxis. They can include the following:  fainting, low blood pressure, dizziness, difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, wheezing, hives or rashes, and vomiting. Many people experience a feeling of impending doom and mental confusion. If you are aware of the symptoms, you can save someone’s life!

Wayne Valley encourages you to “react with respect” to your friends affected by food allergies! Learning the facts about food allergies and anaphylaxis will help bring understanding and education to others.