Following extensive campaigning by the Anaphylaxis Campaign and other leading organisations, new legislation will come into effect on 1st October 2017 to allow schools, preschools and nurseries to obtain generic Epi-Pens  without a prescription, for emergency use on children who are at risk of anaphylaxis but whose own device is not available or not working. The new legislation represents a significant adjustment in the management of children who suffer from severe allergic reactions and it will provide great reassurance  to parents, school staff and carers across the UK.  Whilst it is not mandatory for schools to hold generic Epi-Pens, those who choose to do so should establish  a sufficient policy or protocol for their use in line with statutory guidance and ensure that staff have been adequately trained to operate the devices in  an emergency.
With 17% of fatal allergic reactions in school-aged children happening while at school, it is extremely good news that Epi-Pens are now set to have a permanent place within schools across the UK! If you wish to find out more about ‘Generic Pens in Schools’  visit the Anaphylaxis Campaign website