ELLSWORTH — Precautionary steps aimed at abating the effects of seasonal flu and the potential outbreak of H1N1, or so-called swine flu, have dominated headlines, but the start of the school year also carries a reminder of other health issues being addressed.

Parents of students attending Blue Hill Consolidated School learned last week that two students — one in kindergarten and one in the first grade — are allergic to peanuts, sesame seeds and tree nuts.

According to the Mayo Clinic, an internationally recognized medical practice headquartered in Minnesota, peanut allergy is common and often appears in young children. An allergic reaction to peanuts can range from minor irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

In a letter sent to parents, Debbie Candage, school nurse at Blue Hill Consolidated School, said the students diagnosed with allergies have been instructed to avoid any exposure to any types of peanut or nut products to prevent a serious allergic reaction.

Candage told parents that precautions are in place to minimize or prevent an exposure to peanuts and nut products.

“The staff and faculty are made aware of any students with any type of allergy, the signs and systems of an allergic reaction and even what to do if a student has an allergic reaction, including administration of an Epipen for anaphylactic reactions,” she said.

In the spirit of “prevention is the best medicine,” Candage went on to ask parents for their help.

For more education news, pick up a copy of The Ellsworth American.