Memories of summer camp should be filled with joy, not allergy symptoms
They can be when kids with allergies and asthma are prepared
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Newswise — ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, ILL (April 25, 2017) – It can be nerve-wracking as well as exhilarating for kids to go to summer camp for the first time. Anxieties may be greater for children with allergies and asthma who fear an allergic reaction or asthma attack. A little planning goes a long way towards making them feel safe and ready for their adventure.
“Summer camp is often a child’s first big activity away from home – whether it’s a day or overnight camp,” says allergist Stephen Tilles, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “And every kid should have the opportunity to spread their wings and try something new without worrying about their health. A few precautions can make summer camp a safe and fun experience.”
Everyone and everything should be up-to-date – Before sending your child to camp, communicate with the staff. The camp needs to tell you what level of physical activities will be involved, what the focus of each day will be, and how meals are handled. And you need to convey your expectations to the camp: how do you want your child’s medical routine handled, what does your child need to fully participate in all activities, and how will the camp respond if your child has a medical emergency? Do some digging to make sure it’s a good fit all the way around.
Pre-camp prep – Once you and your camper have decided they’ll be off to camp this summer, a visit to the allergist is in order. If your child uses medications, or an epinephrine auto injector for severe allergic reactions, make sure their prescriptions are the appropriate dose for their height and weight, and are up-to-date. Work with your allergist to send the correct supply of needed medications. Double-check expiration dates on existing supplies.
Have a chat before you sing around the campfire – Schedule a meeting with the person responsible for medical care and your child’s counselor well before the first day of camp to make them aware of your child’s medical needs. Have your child attend the meeting too, so they are empowered to keep track of symptoms and triggers.
So she’s not headed to the wilderness – Even if it’s not a specialty sleepaway camp, most day camps have provisions in place to keep kids with allergies and asthma safe. They welcome discussions about what your child can and cannot eat, and what they need to have on hand in case of a severe allergic reaction, or an asthma attack. Make sure the camp you choose has dealt with allergies and asthma before, knows where the nearest hospital is and how to get there, and when to call 911.
For more information about treatment of severe allergic reactions, as well as asthma, and to locate an allergist in your area, visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.
About ACAAI
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.
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