There may be a lot of feasting and merry making during the holiday season, but for the person with allergies, problems may abound. Here are some tips to be allergy safe this holiday season
- If there is a buffet it is wise to skip that – they could mean common cooking or serving utensils, there is proximity of different foods and there is a high risk of cross contamination
- Take allergy medication 48 hours in advance if you plan to visit people with pets, a real tree or any other allergy trigger you suspect they may have
- All meds, the EpiPen, inhaler, etc. should be brought along, for if and when you need them
- If you have a severe allergy of some sort, then make sure you pass on the information to your host ahead of time to avoid exposure if possible
- If yours is going to be an overnight visit consider the need to bring your own bedding
- Even if you are going to be at home, avoid aerosol cans and other scented products. Use an artificial tree and greens; make sure to dust decorations well
- And keep unscented tissues handy.
