Food Allergy Law Enacted In New York

Food Allergy Law Enacted In New York

Summary: Governor Eliot Spitzer has signed into law the

href="http://www.careonehealthservices.com/newsreel/health-news.php">Allergy & Anaphylaxis Management Act of

life-threatening food allergies.

allergy management, homecare, Food allergy

Article Body: Governor Eliot Spitzer has signed into law the

href="http://www.careonehealthservices.com/newsreel/health-news.php">Allergy & Anaphylaxis Management Act of

life-threatening food allergies.

The new law requires the New York State Commissioner of Health to develop model state guidelines to manage

the risk of food allergy and anaphylaxis (a potentially fatal allergic reaction) in schools. All New York schools must receive the guidelines by June , . Though the AAMA calls for schools to develop policies based on the guidelines, it provides flexibility for each school to create a policy consistent with its unique environment and culture.

"This vital legislation will save lives," said Robert Pacenza, Executive Director, FAI. "If a food-allergic

child accidentally ingests even a miniscule trace of the wrong food, it can trigger a reaction that can kill

within minutes. The AAMA will provide New York parents and schools with sensible guidelines to help keep

these kids safe. FAI is proud to have been the organizing force behind this effort."

During the past year, FAI led a coalition of food allergy support groups and parents across New York State to

achieve the passage of the AAMA. In the months ahead, the organization plans to consult with the Commissioner

of Health and other interested parties to create the new food allergy guidelines. FAI expresses its appreciation to Governor Spitzer and to Senator Serphin Maltese (R-Long Island) and Assemblyman Jose Rivera (D-Bronx), who championed the bill in the New York State Assembly.

About Food Allergies

Food allergy is a major public health concern, affecting more than million Americans -- at least % of

children under age , and -% of the adult population. In particular, the number of children with peanut

allergy doubled from -. Every year, at least people die from food allergy, and severe allergic

reactions (anaphylaxis) account for more than , emergency room visits. There is no cure, and no therapy

to prevent anaphylaxis -- only emergency treatment with epinephrine to control a reaction that is already in

progress.