LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Veronica Cantu,

Laredo, Texas-United ISD: Through the efforts of the United ISD Grants Administration and Health Services Departments, a potentially life-saving donation of epipens has been secured for students who suffer from severe allergic reactions. This is the second round of epipens the District obtained and they will be placed under the care of District’s registered school nurses.

“Students almost spend more time at school than they do at home, so it is important that school nurses are equipped with the tools they need to handle emergencies,” said United ISD Director of Health Services Irene Rosales. “…especially, if these emergencies include the use of an epipen.”

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can cause the rapid onset of an itchy rash or swelling of the throat and wheezing.Common causes include insect bites and stings, foods, and medications.

“Really, anyone can have an anaphylactic reaction, whether they have been diagnosed with severe allergies or not,” added Rosales.

The donation of 84 epipens from the Mylan Specialty Pharmaceutical Company, is estimated at over $46,000.  The company sponsors the national EpiPen4Schools Program which provides free EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. (Epinephrine) auto-injectors to public and private elementary, middle, and high schools in the U.S.

“This donation allows the district to have a capacity for quick response in a potentially life-threatening situation.  By having epipens available at all campuses, in both child and adult doses, we are providing a safe secure place for students, employees, and visiting parents,” said United ISD Grants Administrator Dr. Edie Landeck.

Auto injectors have been donated to United ISD in the form of EpiPen 2-Pak kits with an EpiPen Jr. for children, an adult strength EpiPen, and a wall mounted dispenser.

For more information on the donation, contact the United ISD Health Services Department at 956-473-6264.