When it comes to summer, as parents, we already have a lengthy checklist. Did we remember the sunblock? Toys? If you have kids with motion sickness (like I do) extra blankets/buckets/towels/wipes/changes of clothes? Diapers and wipes (for those with babies)? Special toys and blankets? Tablets? IPods/IPads/Tablets? By the time the car is packed, it can look like you are moving out (especially if you are a family of six, like us.
For those of us with children with food allergies/asthma/anaphylaxis, preparing for the summer weather takes some extra planning. Do we have enough EpiPen's/EpiPen Jr.'s/Auvi-Q's? Inhalers? Benadryl/other antihistamine? Any other meds/equipment? If you are like me, it takes longer to pack for the coast than drive to it!
So, with all of that being said, what can we do to ensure that we keep our supplies stable in hot weather? First and foremost, NEVER leave an EpiPen in a car. There are two reasons for this. First...it does you no good there. Second, Mylan recommends keeping your EpiPen at 77 degrees (or between 59-86 degrees). Auvi-Q has the same recommendations.
In terms of asthma medications, while all companies advise specific temperature parameters, a study found that exceeding these parameters had no impact on the efficacy of the drug.
Apart from medicine, the other thing we often have to consider is food. Ice cream and similar treats are a frequent go to during the hot days of summer, but pose a huge risk for kids with food allergies. We recommend sticking to the Snack Safely list to refer to safe treats during the summer. And of course, read labels for sun block and drink up! Kiddos with asthma (who are breathing more rapidly) are going to be at higher risk for dehydration!
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