In continuation of our “get to know the icons of our logo” series that we began back in our November post where we explained that our bee icon stands for allergy to insect bites and venom, this month we are talking about the strawberry. Read on to learn what this red icon stands for, and make sure to enter our Strawberry Challenge below for a chance to win an iPad Mini !

STRAWBERRY IN OUR LOGO: represents food allergies.

 Facts

There are eight foods that account for 90% of all food allergy reactions in the U.S.

1. cow’s milk
2. eggs
3. peanuts
4.  tree nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, and cashews)
5. fish
6. shellfish
7. soy
8. wheat

While 3.3 million Americans are allergic to peanuts or tree nuts, 6.9 million are allergic to seafood.

Combined, food allergies cause 30,000 annual cases of anaphylaxis, 2,000 hospitalizations, and approximately 150 deaths.

Children with multiple food allergies have a three-fold increased risk of a severe reaction.

Children with food allergies and asthma tend to have more severe reactions.

Symptoms (not all food allergy reactions are the same)

For some, the reaction might be a mild case of stomach cramps, itchy mouth or hives.

For others it might go from shortness of breath, wheezing, swollen lips to as severe as going into anaphylactic shock – which can result in death if not treated in time.

Treatment

After being tested by an allergist, avoid the food allergen that is the protein that triggers your reaction.

How to avoid a serious reaction (anaphylaxis)

Know the S.A.F.E. Action Guide

S.eek immediate medical assistance = Call 911
Identify the A.llergen
F.ollow up with the allergist
Carry E.pinephrine autoinjectors for emergencies at all times 

TAKE OUR STRAWBERRY CHALLENGE !

For a chance to win an iPad Mini