By wisequack at June 8 Got Chalk?
Although many classrooms across North America have switched to dustless chalk in an effort to keep the environment clean, it turns out this move might not be beneficial for every student. That’s because according to a recent study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (try that one 10 times fast), this choice in chalk might cause illness if a child has an underlying milk allergy. Researchers found that the use of dustless chalk still causes the release of small particles into the air and this fine mist actually contains a milk protein called casein. If this protein is inhaled into the lungs of a student with milk allergies, it can trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath along with nasal congestion, sneezing and a drippy nose. Unfortunately, casein can also be present in other classroom items such as glue, paper, ink and Bobby’s lunch kit. At present, it is estimated that there are over 300,000 children in North America who suffer from a milk allergy but the good news is that 80 percent will no longer exhibit symptoms by age 16. So, if you want to reduce your child’s chances of sneezing and wheezing, ask his teacher if he can be seated at the back of the classroom. If you’re a student, better yet, ask if you can stay home…
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