Food Allergy Canada is calling on provincial governments to introduce laws requiring schools to keep stock epinephrine devices on hand for emergencies involving students experiencing severe allergic reactions.
The advocacy group’s latest push follows new research suggesting that legislation can significantly improve schools’ preparedness to respond to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
A peer-reviewed study examining Alberta’s 2020 legislation found that pre-hospital epinephrine use in school anaphylaxis cases nearly doubled after the law took effect, rising from 35.7% to 64.5%. The research also found a substantial increase in anaphylaxis training among school personnel.
Food Allergy Canada says Alberta is currently the only province with legislation specifically requiring schools to have stock epinephrine available. The organization is urging other provinces to adopt similar requirements alongside staff education and emergency-response protocols.
Stock epinephrine devices are intended for emergency use and are not assigned to a particular student. They can provide an additional layer of protection when a child experiences an unexpected allergic reaction at school.
The organization emphasizes, however, that stock devices do not replace personal epinephrine auto-injectors carried by students with diagnosed food allergies. Schools also need trained staff who can recognize the symptoms of anaphylaxis and respond quickly.
Public support for broader access is strong. Food Allergy Canada says recent polling found that 90% of Canadians believe schools should have epinephrine available for emergency use, while 83% support making treatment for severe allergic reactions widely accessible in public spaces.
The advocacy group says the issue is particularly urgent as students return to classrooms across Canada. It is calling on provincial governments to mandate stock epinephrine and anaphylaxis education, while encouraging school boards and educators to complete specialized training.
Food Allergy Canada estimates that more than 600,000 Canadian children live with food allergies, making school preparedness an important public-health and student-safety issue.
The campaign comes as provinces continue to take different approaches to managing anaphylaxis in schools. Ontario, for example, has had Sabrina’s Law since 2006, while other provinces have established their own legislation, policies or guidelines.
Food Allergy Canada says the growing evidence shows that legislation can help ensure schools have both the life-saving medication and the knowledge needed to use it effectively.
Swifteradio.com
