Madrid, Spain – As children return to school, pediatric allergists are issuing warnings about potential risks for students with allergies and asthma, urging vigilance regarding both the school surroundings and seasonal health concerns. The Spanish Society of Pediatric Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEICAP) has released guidance for parents and educators to ensure a safe learning environment.
The return to classes presents unique challenges for children with pre-existing conditions. Beyond typical environmental triggers,common school supplies-waxes,chalk,glue,and modeling paste-can harbor hidden allergens like gluten,nuts,soy,or milk protein,posing a risk through direct contact,inhalation,or accidental ingestion,according to SEICAP.
To mitigate these risks, SEICAP recommends teachers meticulously review school material lists for potential allergens and proactively seek safe alternatives for affected students, ensuring inclusivity for all. Simultaneously, the institution highlights the coinciding timing with the annual flu vaccination campaign, typically in October, emphasizing the vaccine’s particular importance for asthmatic children due to the potential for serious respiratory complications.
Parents are advised to consult their reference pediatrician to schedule flu vaccinations as part of a extensive preventative health plan for the school year.SEICAP’s key recommendations also include keeping necessary medication, including autoinjectors for anaphylaxis, readily accessible in backpacks; updating medical reports, especially after vacations; informing school centers about a child’s medical conditions; adhering to medication schedules even without symptoms; supervising proper inhaler use; reviewing school materials for allergens; requesting safe alternatives for activities; and coordinating flu vaccination with a pediatrician.