22-Year-Old Fisherman Faces Life-Threatening Allergic Reaction
A 22-year-old man from Kfar Zeitim suffered a severe anaphylactic reaction after exposure to fish. Thanks to the rapid response of United Hatzalah medics and the use of an EpiPen, his life was saved.
A 22-year-old man from the moshav of Kfar Zeitim suffered a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction after exposure to fish—an allergen to which he is highly sensitive. Medical teams from United Hatzalah were dispatched to his home, where the rapid administration of an EpiPen stabilized his condition and saved his life.
Inon Asher Alkayam, a United Hatzalah medic who was the first to arrive at the scene, stated:
"His family members informed us that he is sensitive to fish and developed a severe allergic reaction upon contact. I administered an EpiPen, which contains adrenaline, and after his condition stabilized, he was evacuated to the hospital for further treatment."
A reaction that can develop within minutes
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can manifest within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Without rapid intervention, it can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, swelling of the tongue or throat, widespread rash, a drop in blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness. The primary and most critical treatment is the immediate injection of adrenaline via an EpiPen, followed by urgent hospital observation, even if the patient's condition appears to improve.
When every minute counts
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that individuals diagnosed with allergies prone to anaphylaxis should carry two valid EpiPen injectors at all times. They must be used immediately upon the onset of symptoms. In such cases, one must call MADA and reach the emergency room quickly, as the reaction can recur even after the initial adrenaline injection.
