Javier Avina, a 10 year old boy, passed away last year without getting emergency Epipen on time. He had asthma, he was allergic to peanuts and eggs, and he attended a Canadian elementary school in Wallaceburg, Ontario. Javier was sent from class to the restroom since he was not feeling well. He apparently vomited and used his puffer, known as a rescue inhaler. He collapsed within 5 minutes of getting to the school office. When he became progressively sick, he was not given epinephrine since they thought his asthma was getting worse. According to the story, there were reports of exposure to another student who was eating peanut containing food. The coroner informed The London Free Press that Javier did not get the care that might have saved him. Javier was given Epinephrine only after the paramedics arrived and by that time it was too late to save his life. The question of whether he died of asthma or food allergy is still yet to be answered. The following points are the major takeaway ideas from this story:
- Emergency epinephrine (Epipen) can be used as first aid in both situations, for a severe asthma attack or a severe food allergy. Originally, epinephrine was the treatment for asthma before puffers came to be used. It helps keep the airway of the victim open until the doctors or paramedics arrive.
- Severe food allergies can be confused with asthma since kids can have trouble breathing from anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the deadly allergic attack. Javier vomited and had trouble breathing, so he could have had a severe food allergy. Even at autopsy it is difficult to determine whether someone died of acute asthma or severe anaphylaxis from food allergy. Epinephrine is the ideal first aid treatment for both severe asthma and acute anaphylaxis from severe food allergy.
- If a similar situation occurs and one is not sure, use Epipen early. It may save someone’s life and it does not cause any harm. Anyone in school can do this.
- To prevent situations like this from happening, create awareness in schools about use of Epipen in emergencies.
- Organize Epipen training clinics in schools to help students and staff get comfortable with using Epipens.
Read the full story: http://nationalpost.com/news/canada/boy-who-died-after-collapse-in-ontario-school-had-expired-puffer-unused-emergency-meds-coroner