On Friday, July 26, Seattle Mariners fans will have the chance to not only root for their home team, but also to learn about an important health issue: anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Food allergies are a common cause of anaphylaxis, and it is estimated that one out of 13 kids in the U.S. lives with a food allergy.
Peanuts, a popular baseball snack, are the most common food allergen among children. This "Allergy Awareness" game will include a limited number of seats in a special peanut-controlled section, which are available for sale on the Seattle Mariners website. In addition, Carson Tucker, 10, from Renton has been chosen to throw out the ceremonial first pitch to start the game. Carson was chosen because he lives with severe allergies and wants to help others learn more about being prepared should anaphylaxis occur.
Peanut-controlled seating at Safeco Field for this game may be helpful for individuals with a peanut allergy, as avoidance of allergic triggers is the critical first step to prevent anaphylaxis. However, accidental exposure may still happen. People at risk for anaphylaxis should have an anaphylaxis action plan in place, which includes avoiding known allergens, recognizing signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, having immediate access to two EpiPenAuto-Injectors and seeking immediate emergency medical care should anaphylaxis occur.
Fans at the game will be encouraged to participate in the Show Us Your EpiPens™ campaign by being photographed with their prescribed EpiPen Auto-Injector and uploading the photo to www.25YearsofEpiPen.com. For every photo submission, Mylan Specialty will donate $25 to leading allergy nonprofit groups up to a total of $25,000. In addition, people who upload photos can choose to receive an exclusive copy of the EpiPen® Show and Tell magazine, featuring original photos, personal tips and more from professional football player Adrian Peterson and TV professional family expert Jo Frost who both carry EpiPen Auto-Injectors.
There is another peanut-controlled game on Tuesday, Aug. 27. To learn more about these events, visit www.Mariners.com/NoPeanuts.
