BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA

A PROCLAMATION FOOD ALLERGY AWARENESS WEEK

WHEREAS: WHEREAS : WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: THEREFORE :

Food allergies are a growing public health concern . An estimated 1 5 million people have food allergies , 6 million of which are children under the age of 18. Furthermore, research shows that the prevalence of food allergy is increasing among children; and
There is no cure for food allergies. Strict avoidance of food allergens and early recognition and management of allergic reactions to food are important measures to prevent serious health consequences. Failure to promptly treat food anaphylaxis with epinephrine is a risk factor for fatalities , and prompt administration is crucial to successfully treating anaphylactic reactions ; and
Eight foods account for most food-allergic reactions: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat , soy, fish , and shellfish. Very small amounts of a food allergen can cause a reaction ; and
The CDC reported that food allergies result in more than 200,000 ambulatory-care visits each year for children, many for suspected anaphylaxis. Eating away from home can pose a significant risk to people affected by food allergy. Research suggests that almost half of fatal food allergy reactions are triggered by food served in restaurants or other food service establishments; and
Organizations like Food Allergy Research & Education are dedicated to ensuring the safety and inclusion of individuals with food allergies while educating the general public , schools, restaurants, daycares, and food allergic individuals about life threatening allergic reactions and risk management procedures; now
I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim May 8- 14 , 2016, as FOOD ALLERGY AWARENESS WEEK in Georgia.
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 13th day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen.

ATT EST

GOVERNOR

CHIEF OF STAFF