Can I ask family members not to eat a food my son is severely allergic to in the house?

Q: Hello! My two-year-old has allergies. He is severely allergic to eggs. We are going on a family vacation including people who are not around him very often. Is it okay or rude of me to ask that eggs not be allowed in the house? I don't want to cause issues, but he's still too little to understand that what he is eating can make him sick or send him to the hospital. I just don't know if it is socially acceptable for me to ask this of people who don't live our lifestyle daily.

A: You should definitely let your family members know that your son is severely allergic to eggs, and it’s perfectly acceptable—and even advisable—to ask them to refrain from bringing eggs into the house while you’re on vacation. I don’t think it’s a huge imposition for anyone to eliminate eggs from his diet for a week or so, especially when it could put your son’s health in danger. It might be wise to call or email the members of your family before you all leave for vacation to remind them of your son’s allergy, and to ask if they would mind helping you keep your son safe. This way, if they happen to stop and pick up groceries before they arrive at the vacation house, you won’t be faced with the unpleasant task of confiscating their eggs upon arrival! I think most folks these days are very familiar with the problem of food allergies, and with the danger they pose to sensitive individuals, so it probably won’t be difficult for them to understand your situation. You’re obviously a very kind and sensitive person to consider their feelings, and I have no doubt that you will ask your family members in such a way that they will be delighted to help you keep your son safe and healthy while you’re all on vacation.

Answered by Dr. Rallie McAllister