This month, read about Pfizer Canada’s voluntary recall of specific lots of EpiPen®/EpiPen Jr®, nominate someone for the Pryde Family Travel Grant and the Robyn Allen Leadership Award, check out our allergy-friendly tips and recipes for Easter and Passover, and more. Read on below for all the details!
Pfizer Canada’s voluntary recall of specific lots of EpiPen/EpiPen Jr
On Friday March 31, 2017, Pfizer Canada voluntarily recalled one lot each of EpiPen®/EpiPen Jr® Auto-Injectors.
This recall was as voluntarily initiated by Pfizer Canada as a result of two confirmed international reports of the device failing to activate. There have been no confirmed reports of device failures involving lots distributed in Canada. However, the recall is being conducted as a precautionary measure due to the commonality of a component that was used in the manufacturing of the product lots.
Health Canada has released an advisory notice which includes some further details, including how many units in the impacted lots were distributed in Canada, and steps on what to do if you have an impacted device.
If you have any questions related to this recall, please contact Pfizer Canada directly at epipen@healthconnect.ca or 1-800-463-6001.
We will continue to keep you informed if there are any further updates. Please continue sharing this news with friends, family, and the greater community.
To read Pfizer Canada’s original press release, click here.
Pryde Family Travel Grant – applications close soon!
The 2017 Pryde Family Travel Grant, which is made possible thanks to the Sean Delaney Memorial Golf Classic, is eligible to students who are enrolled in medical or graduate programs in Canada, and allied health professionals. Two grants, valued at $500 each, will be awarded to help offset the costs of attending an academic program or event related to food allergies, such as a conference, workshop, semester abroad, or a clinical placement program.
The deadline for the application has been extended to April 24, 2017. Learn more and apply today!
Robyn Allen Leadership Award
The Robyn Allen Leadership Award is given annually to an individual who has made a unique contribution to the lives of Canadians living with severe allergies through their efforts in education, advocacy, community building, leadership, or fundraising. The award is in memory of Robyn Allen, a beautiful young girl who passed away from an allergic reaction in 1990. Although a food allergy to peanuts triggered the response, it was lack of awareness that led to her death.
To be eligible for the award, you must be:
- A healthcare professional, industry representative (e.g. food manufacturer, foodservice), government representative, or advocate who provides leadership to effect change and improve the lives of those at risk for anaphylaxis.
Learn more about the award and how to nominate someone. The deadline for submissions is May 1, 2017.
Some bunny loves you: 5 tips for holding a safer Easter egg hunt for children with food allergies
The Easter egg hunt is a time-honoured tradition in many communities. And with an estimated 300,000 children and youth in Canada living with one or more food allergies, holding an inclusive event simply makes sense. It also demonstrates both community spirit and compassion.
Ensuring that all kids feel welcome and included in an Easter egg hunt is easier than it may sound. With a bit of advanced planning, you too can hold a fun and safe event. Read our tips!
Allergy-friendly recipes for Easter and Passover
Whether you celebrate Easter or Passover, Allergic Living has compiled a great list of allergy-friendly recipes for both occasions.
They include recipe options for appetizers, mains, sides, and dessert. Check them out! Plus, they have additional options if you need more ideas!
Happy Easter and Passover everyone!
May is Food Allergy Awareness Month
Every year, we celebrate Food Allergy Awareness Month in May. This year, we will be creating awareness on dining out safely with food allergies, and the shared responsibility of the diner and of foodservice establishments in terms of keeping safe with food allergies. Stay tuned for more details coming next month on how you can be involved!