Food Allergy Canada calls for epinephrine devices in all schools

Food Allergy Canada is urging provinces to require every school to keep stock epinephrine devices on hand for emergencies. The group says Alberta is the only province with legislation that mandates schools to have epinephrine available for any student, not just those with known allergies. The call comes after a Grade 1 student in Edmonton, Kofi Berkley, suffered a sudden anaphylactic reaction at recess in May. Because his school had stock EpiPens under Alberta law, staff were able to treat him quickly before an ambulance arrived. The organization says firsttime allergic reactions can happen without warning, and that schools should be prepared in the same way they prepare for fires or lockdowns. A pediatric allergist quoted in the story said faster use of epinephrine can reduce the risk of hospitalization and other serious complications.