OCFS is thrilled to offer an epinephrine auto injector for all age groups!

The goal of this initiative is to spread allergy awareness to all caregivers and families, thus preventing further tragedy. Having a non-patient specific auto injector a day care program’s emergency tool kit, and the knowledge on how to use it, is a potentially lifesaving investment. OCFS strongly encourages all childcare programs to take advantage of this exciting opportunity! Thank you for your commitment to the well-being of children.

OCFS is thrilled to partner with Health First, the authorized distributor of AUVI-Q, an epinephrine auto injector for all age groups! Each participating program will receive a no cost package containing up to 3 doses of two non-patient specific auto injectors and one training device.

Participation in this potentially life-saving initiative is simple! Join the thousands of other day care programs by completing 3 easy steps READ MORE AND ENROLL ON THE OCFS WEBSITE

Epinephrine is the first-line drug of choice for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions. It is a safe medication. There is no medical reason for trained, designated staff to withhold the administration of an auto-injector in an emergency if anaphylaxis is suspected.

Child care professionals play a critical role in protecting the health and safety of the children in their facilities, which includes allergy awareness. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 13 children is impacted by allergies. Allergies have the potential to create a life-threatening situation. Anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction) must be treated right away. By learning about allergies and preventing anaphylaxis, child care providers can save lives.

In November 2017, 3-year-old Elijah Silvera from New York City was given a grilled cheese sandwich while at day care despite having a known severe dairy allergy; Elijah went into anaphylaxis and died.

In 2019 New York State adopted new legislation called Elijah’s Law. Elijah’s Law impacts all child care facilities and requires them to follow state food allergy guidelines to prevent, recognize and respond to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.