Have you ever seen those shows that take a swab from some random public place and analyze it to see exactly what is lurking in microscopic amounts all around us? The answers are usually meant to shock and "gross out" the viewers. Some of what they find are unmentionable on this blog.
However, have you ever considered the things they do find that seem harmless to most, but could be deadly to a child with a peanut allergy? If people don't wash their hands after using the bathroom or goodness knows what else, what makes us think they will wash their hands after indulging in a peanut and butter and jelly sandwich?
Some people who have a PA react from only trace amounts. That could come from a smudge on the mall escalator or a doorknob at a friend's house. It's only a matter of time before that hand is up by the face and eventually the mouth.
Washing hands after being in public is a great practice for anyone to have. It cuts down on colds and other viruses. But it could also prevent peanuts entering the mouth of a PA child. Is it unlikely that this could happen? Maybe. But why take chance? I am trying to train my PA 3 year old to wash his hands every time we come in from a public place. Maybe I'm being an over-reactive mom but at least my son will have the cleanest hands around!
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3 comments:
I do this too--my youngest child does this now without being asked.
I started the "hand-washing" when we get home routine to try and prevent getting sick, but it's also a great way to avoid allergens. And another thing--always wash hand before cooking for the same reasons!
Almost forgot--I "tagged" you on my site. Visit my blog for the rules. Thanks!--Jenny
OMG! I was doing a little research before posting my peanut allergy post. So glad to have found your site! You'll have to come by tomorrow when my post is up! nice to meet you! Mine is now 9 years old and he was diagnosed at 15months.
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