Dear Parent,

Re: Twinject Auto Injectors

Recently, a new product, Twinject, has been made available for students who are at risk for anaphylaxis. It provides a single automated dose in a manner similar to that of Epipen. After this, the second dose is not automated and needs to be prepared before administering to a child in need. Should a second dose be required, there is a possibility that the second dose will be prepared or given incorrectly. The risk of this is increased by other factors that the teacher might be dealing with during this time, such as supervising other children.

Vancouver Coastal Health recommends that the Epipen auto-injector be provided to the school for children with allergies that may lead to anaphylaxis. Also, school staff will not be trained in the administration of the Twinject Auto Injectors. Currently, staff is trained on the use of the Epipen and will continue to be trained on this by our school nurse.

We ask that you make sure that your child’s medication be provided in a clearly labeled plastic baggy to the office and that you check the expiration date on it to ensure it is current. If the child has an Epipen in the classroom, please check that it is current and that the teacher has it in a clearly labeled baggy/fanny pack at her desk.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and please call the school if you have any questions regarding the school’s policy on anaphylaxis.